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Travelers looking to lock in spring break plans may want to move fast.

JetBlue has announced a limited-time "Spring Ahead" promotion featuring one-way fares starting at just $79. The sale kicks off Tuesday, March 3 and runs through Thursday, March 5, giving travelers a short window to snag discounted tickets for upcoming spring trips.

The travel window spans April 14 through June 10, just in time for spring break getaways and early summer vacations. Just note blackout dates apply from May 21–26.

The sale includes routes to popular warm-weather destinations—as well as select deals to Europe.

Here are a few standout fares:

• New York (LGA) to West Palm Beach (PBI) from $79
• Boston (BOS) to Barcelona (BCN) from $249
• Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to Liberia (LIR) from $109
• Orlando (MCO) to Cancun (CUN) from $129

Whether you’re craving a Florida beach escape, a Costa Rica adventure, a European city break or a quick trip to Mexico, the airline’s spring promotion offers options at budget-friendly price points.

As with most fare sales, prices are subject to availability and may vary by date, so flexibility can help score the lowest rate.

Travelers interested in booking can visit JetBlue’s website to browse eligible routes and secure tickets before the promotion wraps on March 5. Happy flying!

RELATED: Universal Unveils Mouthwatering New Look at Expanded Treat Menu Across Wizarding World

When I think of travel nightmares, some of the things that comes to mind are delayed flights and lost luggage. However, some folks heading down to the Southern U.S. may be faced with a different problem all together, after pest control experts say that certain states have seen a massive influx in travel-related bed bug infestations.

The creepy crawlies typically aren't as big of a problem in these states, which makes the sudden spike in numbers particularly concerning for those headed South for spring break or summer vacations.

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Southern States Like Georgia Seeing a Rise in Bed Bug Cases

For decades, the Southern states seemed to escape the bed bug infestations that plagued places like New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

However, an influx in international travel and climate change has caused bed bugs to become more common in the Southern U.S. “Bedbugs started showing up probably about 30 years ago,” Dan Suiter, an Orkin professor of urban entomology at the University of Georgia told USA Today in a recent interview. “It seemed to me that the top bed bug cities ... were in the Northeast, Ohio and the Upper Midwest. And it seemed like Georgia and the South were lagging behind... But that has changed.”

Now, bed bugs are finding themselves enjoying those familiar tourist hotspots right alongside international and domestic travelers, and they are leaving some of them behind after they leave, which allows the bugs to breed and infest hotels and resorts, sending some of their offspring home with unsuspecting guests.

Related: This Historic City Was Named the Travelers' Choice for Solo Travel

Georgia Appears to Have the Worst Southern Bed Bug Problem

When it comes to the states with the biggest spike in bed bug issues, Georgia is leading the pack. According to a Feb. 24, 2026 report from Terminix Atlanta, Georgia is ranked sixth in a list of 50 U.S. cities with the most bed bug service requests.

Of course, the top cities across the country are still the usual suspects, and include:

• Philadelphia
• New York
• Cleveland-Akron
• Los Angeles
• Dallas-Ft. Worth

Related: Amazon’s 'Sleek' $18 Backpack Is 'Perfect for Work, Travel, or Commuting'

How to Keep From Bringing Bed Bugs Home

Worried that your most long-lasting souvenir from your next trip to the South will come with six legs and a thirst for blood? According to Terminix, you can protect yourself and your belongings by taking a few extra precautions when you travel.

"The best way to prevent bringing bed bugs home while traveling is being able to identify them and their signs in the areas where you rest or sleep," the Terminix report says. Some things that you should be on the lookout for include signs of bugs (either brownish-rust colored stains or the actual bugs themselves) in the areas around your bed, including the mattress seems, pillows, headboard, and the floor boards.

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You should inspect these areas before bringing your luggage into your hotel room or rental. Many pros recommend putting all of your belongings into the bath tub or on the bathroom floor while you inspect your accommodations.

Additionally, many people suggest avoiding using the hotel's dressers and drawers, instead recommending that travelers keep their luggage sealed within a bag for the duration of their stay.

Of course, picking up bed bugs when you're traveling can sometimes be hard to avoid. If you end up bringing home some of these unwanted pests from your trip, you'll want to contact a pest control expert as soon as you find signs of them when you return home.

Nancy Guthrie has been missing for well over a month and authorities have yet to identify a suspect in the case. In an interview with Today that ran on Tuesday, March 3, Sheriff Chris Nanos shared an update on where things are in the investigation.

Perhaps one of the most notable things that Nanos said was that the DNA found inside of Guthrie's home has not provided any leads—not one. It has been previously reported that DNA found inside of Guthrie's home was sent to a lab for processing, but because the sample was "mixed," it's been a challenge to obtain a result.

While chatting with Today, Nanos confirmed that some of the extracted DNA was put into the national FBI data bank but it yielded zero hits. He believes that the DNA could still be a key piece in the investigation, but cautions that it's going to take time to properly identify who it belongs to.

In a separate interview, Today spoke with Arizona State University Forensic Science Professor April Stonehouse who explained the DNA processing options a bit.

"I think that means that there are potentially items of evidence that maybe don’t have a lot of DNA on them to begin with," Stonehouse explained. "Let’s say 90 percent of the DNA comes from the victim and only 10 percent is from the suspect. What they can potentially do is go back and rerun that sample and add more DNA hoping to bring up the signal from the suspect’s profile," she added.

READ NEXT: Savannah Guthrie’s Mom Update: Former FBI Agent Rejects ‘Robbery Gone Wrong’ Theory

In the gothic grunge era of the late 90s, The Crow starring Brandon Lee had a standout soundtrack with a specialy made songs from bands like Stone Temple Pilots. The late '80s rock band created a hit track after learning the heartbreaking details of what happened on set.

Their song "Big Empty" wasn't originally planned for the movie soundtrack, with them having thought to re-recorded demo track titled "Only Dying" from their Mighty Joe Young album. Some reports claim "Big Empty" was originally a hidden track from their 1992 debut album Core, and was re-recorded with a darker and gothic edge for the 1994 movie.

For the soundtrack, Stone Temple Pilots decided to submit "Big Empty" after learning what happened to Lee during filming. The Crow is not only infamous among fans as a cult classic that brought to life the comic book character, but also for Lee's sudden death on set.

Near the end of filming, Lee was acting out one of the stunts where his character gets shot by a gun. Due to an error during prop preparation, a bullet from the dummy round became lodged in the barrel. The prop gun became a real-life weapon when sufficient force from firing the gun propelled the lodge bullet into Lee. The actor died hours later.

Related: 2003 Hit Ranked ‘Most Popular Rock Song’ of All Time 

"Big Empty" was included in the soundtrack as a result and later released on Stone Temple Pilots' second debut album, titled Purple. The song was a hit among fans and landed at No. 3 and No. 7 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks and Modern Rock Tracks charts. It also won an MTV Movie Award for Best Song featured in a movie. It's considered one of the band's hit songs and one of the best grunge tracks.

The Crow soundtrack also included covers by Nine Inch Nails, Pantera, and Rollins Band. Rage Against the Machine re-recorded and re-named one of their 1992 tracks, with The Cure having specially written "Burn" for the movie. The soundtrack entered the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart and was certified 3x Platinum.

The cast for Mike Flanagan’s The Exorcist reboot is growing rapidly. Sometime after bringing Marvel’s Black Widow, Scarlett Johansson, on board as the lead, along with other major names such as Laurence Fishburne, Jacobi Jupe, Diane Lane, and Chiwetel Ejiofor, the film is now adding another superhero alum into the fold.

This time, it’s Marvel’s rival brand DC’s Supergirl herself, Sasha Calle, who essayed the role in The Flash, directed by Andy Muschietti.

Warner Bros.

While details about Calle’s role remain under wraps, she brings a diverse acting resume to the project. She is known for playing Desire Lopez in Netflix’s The Rip alongside Matt Damon and Ben Affleck. Sasha has also lent her talent to The Young and the Restless (2018–2021) as Lola Rosales, In the Summers (2024) as Eva, On Swift Horses (2024) as Sandra, among many others.

Not much is known about reboot’s storyline, but  Flanagan has made it clear that he intends to steer the franchise away from nostalgia to a bold and scary direction.

 “I chased The Exorcist very aggressively because I was convinced I had something that I could add,” he told The Hollywood Reporter. “This is an opportunity to do something that I believe has never been done within the franchise — something that honors what came before it but isn’t built on nostalgia. I really just saw an opportunity to make the scariest movie I’ve ever made.”

Production is set to begin in New York City, with the film currently slated for release on March 12, 2027.

Related: Scarlett Johansson Makes Vulnerable Admission About Her 'Clear Intention' for 2026

Throughout all of history, women have historically been pitted against each other. We have grown up in a patriarchal society, one that relies on women focusing their energy on seeing their fellow female compatriots as competition to be squashed. In fact, researchers at Cardiff Metropolitan University found that women tend to blame "the other woman" in an affair, while most men solely blame their cheating wives.

But in the year of our Lord 2026, women are no longer idolizing patriarchy; they're banding together to squash it. If you need proof, look no further than TikToker @erizzabef. This absolute queen was recently put to the test when an old high school friend reached out to her for a date... only she learned he was married. Instead of backing out of the date, she decided to accept and help his wife catch his cheating ways.

She began by explaining that he reached out to her through TikTok, saying he missed her and would love to get together. While she hadn't spoken to him in 15 years, as most of us do, she lived a parasocial life alongside him through Facebook, seeing little posts here and there about his life as it unfolded.

@erizzabef

♬ original sound - LizNice

"He got married, he had a baby. They bought a house, they had another baby, they got a dog. How cool. So I'm thinking, it's really weird that he's reaching out to me at all, because why are you reaching out to me," she said. "You're married. And I was gonna say that to him, but then I thought, you know what? This is an opportunity that a lot of girls don't get, and I am not gonna blow my cover."

Related: 'Lion King' Lyrics Translation Goes Viral: Watch the Hilarious 'Millennial Crash Out' Over the Intro's True Meaning

A Plan Is Officially Hatched

Instead, she reached out to his wife, showed her the screenshot, and asked her if she wanted her to do some digging. The thankful wife agreed, and she got him to agree to take her out on a random Sunday afternoon. The wife texted her not long after and told the woman that her husband said he was going out drinking with some "buddies."

So the two devised a plan. The TikToker would go to meet him and, admittedly, let him know she knew he had a wife to see what he would say. The wife booked a babysitter to meet her there after she gathered enough evidence, and they planned to confront him together.

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And because this saint of a woman is such a "girl's girl," she provided an update. She baited him with the wife question, and he flat out said, "She won't be a problem... what she doesn't know won't hurt her."

Related: The 'Staples Baddie' Goes Viral: How One Employee's TikTok Is Reinvigorating the Massive Brand (Exclusive)

What Ended Up Happening?

The TikToker ran to the bathroom and texted the wife the proof she needed. The two devised a plan to confront him simultaneously, and the TikToker got to watch the wife tear this cheater a new one.

After consoling her, the two unlikely friends spent the night hanging out together. And a pair of new besties was born.

@erizzabef

Replying to @lindseytaylorh

♬ original sound - LizNice

"And I honestly can't wait for the glow up. I can't wait for the glow up. She just lost 150 pounds of dead weight. She's gonna glow up and grow," said the TikToker.

People in the comments were beyond proud of the TikToker and Wife for combining forces against the real enemy.

"I know you probably felt trapped and uncomfortable in that booth, but in that moment, she needed you. You were her moral support and she was using your strength to tell her husband what’s up. If it weren’t for you, she might not have felt strong enough to go off," wrote one follower.

"The friendship origin story is the REAL treasure here," added another.

"It's only March and we already got the girl's girl of the year," one proclaimed.

That just goes to show, ladies, women are always there to rally around you if you call on them.

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Sometimes it’s the simplest things that bring us the most joy. And when it comes to outfitting our homes with pieces that elevate the space around them, you don't have to blow your entire budget on something overpriced to make an impact.

Take Target, for example. The fan-favorite retail giant is no stranger to designer-inspired styles across a wide range of price points, but where it really shines is in its affordable home and kitchen essentials that serve an everyday purpose without sacrificing style or elegance.

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Threshold 15-Ounce Stoneware Westfield Mug Gray, $3 at Target

Target

Case in point: the Threshold 15-Ounce Stoneware Westfield Mug, a charming $3 find with a timeless silhouette that adds a classic, elegant touch to your morning routine.

As spring finally approaches, it's only natural to feel the urge to bring a little seasonal refresh into your home. And with the kitchen being the easiest place to start, Target is setting shoppers up with the best the season has to offer by way of practical, affordable finds ready to meet a myriad of uses.

With a durable stoneware construction, embossed stripes around its silhouette and a generous 15-ounce capacity, the Threshold Stoneware Westfield Mug stands out as an elevated addition to any growing drinkware collection. 

Perfect for hot and cold beverages alike, this mug is ready to upgrade your favorite cup of coffee, tea, cocoa and beyond, all complemented by a design that feels comfortable and substantial in your hand. But that's not all, it's also microwave- and dishwasher-safe, making everything from reheating to cleanup an absolute breeze.

Related: Dollar General's Elegant $3 Kitchen Find Adds a Touch of Farmhouse Whimsy to Your Morning Coffee

Elevated Details Shoppers Love

Target

Likened to brands like Le Creuset and Williams Sonoma for their minimalist designs paired with elegant detailing, this Threshold mug certainly does not come up short, even with its super low $3 price tag. But don't let the price fool you, this isn't your average "cheap" find either, as it's backed by rave reviews from shoppers who have wasted no time snatching up multiples to create a full set.

And with gray and ivory colors available, a height of 3.38 inches and a width of 3.75 inches, plus an unbeatable five-star average rating, it's no wonder this mug is earning top remarks from shoppers across the board.

"My new favorite mug," one fan raved, calling it "perfect for under the espresso machine" and praising its "thick and sturdy" design, adding that it's a "great value."

Another shopper chimed in, describing the mug as "high-end" and "amazing," sharing that they especially love how the "handles don't get hot in the microwave," reiterating that the "price can't be beat."

Others called the mug "classic and timeless" and highlighted its "great quality," while one fan shared that after buying one as a gift for their aunt, their mother promptly turned around and bought "10 for our house."

If you can see yourself adding this mug to your collection or you have a friend in mind who would love to receive one as a gift, don't waste any time snagging one or more up while they're still in stock. Either color is guaranteed to elevate your drinkware collection and feel great in your hand while in use. 

And while you're at it, check out Target's gorgeous stoneware salad plates and stunning apothecary jars for even more essential kitchen finds. 

Related: A Nationwide Search for America's Best Grilled Cheese Is Underway—Here's How to Cast Your Vote and Win Big

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If your dining space is ready for a refresh, Walmart's latest deal is too good to miss. The Best Choice Products 7-Piece Mid-Century Modern Upholstered Dining Set, regularly priced at $1,172, is now on sale for just $500. 

This "quality and beautiful" set brings stylish sophistication and comfort to any dining room, all at a price that feels like a steal.

Best Choice Products Mid-Century Modern Dining Set, $500 (was $1,172) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

This set is a showstopper for anyone who loves a blend of vintage charm and modern elegance. The centerpiece is a spacious walnut-finished wooden table with smooth, rounded corners that invite everyone to gather around. It’s paired with six matching chairs, each upholstered in a creamy, easy-care polyester fabric. Finished with elegantly curved backrests, this set is ready for everything from casual breakfasts to festive holiday feasts.

Related: Walmart’s ‘Stylish and Elegant’ 5-Tier Arched Bookcase Is Giving High-End Vibes for Only $160

Shoppers enjoy the supportive, plush seating, perfect for lingering over dessert or enjoying long, laughter-filled evenings with friends. The sturdy, solid rubberwood legs provide both durability and that iconic mid-century silhouette, ensuring your set stays beautiful for years to come. The table's wood grain veneer and wipeable chair cushions resist stains and spills, so cleaning up after a big meal is a breeze. 

Spacious enough for large families or hosting guests, the table measures 59 inches long and 35.5 inches wide, with each chair comfortably supporting up to 275 pounds. Shoppers said the set ships in three separate boxes (so don't worry if it doesn't arrive all at once!), and noted that assembly is straightforward with the included instructions.

"Quality and beautiful dining set," one shopper said. "Pretty easy to put together, looks beautiful, and the quality is very good."

"Very nice, simple but modern look," another shopper said. 

Shop More Deals

• Best Choice Products 10-Foot Steel Patio Umbrella, $45 (was $107) at Walmart
• Dakimoe Embroidered Initial Crossbody Belt Bag, $10 (was $22) at Walmart
• Best Choice Products Round Solid Wood Dining Table, $220 (was $414) at Walmart

Ready to make your dining room the heart of your home? Scoop up this 7-piece mid-century modern dining set for only $500 here before this amazing deal disappears. Two additional color options have already sold out, and this model may move fast as well. 

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.

Selena Gomez is finally revealing which Taylor Swift song is about her!

The former Disney star and the singer-songwriter have been pals since their teenage years, and fans have long speculated that certain lyrics and songs may be about their friendship. However, neither had confirmed which songs were actually about Selena—until now.

During the Tuesday, Mar. 3 episode of Gomez’s husband Benny Blanco’s podcast Friends Keep Secrets, she revealed that "dorothea" from Swift's ninth studio album evermore is written about her.

“Well, ‘dorothea’ is about me, one of her songs," Gomez said, before explaining how she connects with Swift's music on a deeper level. "And I feel like a lot of moments—huge moments that were self-defining from relationships to family to love to hate, all of it in between, we were figuring it out because I was 15 and she was 18, and we didn’t really know what was going on. And so we’ve never seen each other any differently. So when I listen to it, I’m so impressed how it’s eloquently put.”

While promoting evermore in 2020, Swift described the titular character of Dorothea as "the girl who left her small town to chase down Hollywood dreams," with the song chronicling "what happens when she comes back for the holidays and rediscovers an old flame."

Gomez is originally from Grand Prairie, Texas, and began her acting career on the children's television series Barney & Friends in 2002 when she was 10-years-old.

Another clue? Gomez has previously shared that The Wizard of Oz was her favorite movie growing up. In the classic film, the main character’s name is Dorothy.

The full lyrics to "dorothea" can be found here.

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On March 3, 2006, General Hospital introduced nurse Epiphany Johnson, played by Sonya Eddy, in her first appearance on the long running ABC soap opera.

Epiphany became known for her no-nonsense attitude while overseeing the hospital’s nurses’ station, making the character a memorable presence in Port Charles.

She later entered a relationship with Milo Giambetti, also known as “Magic Milo,” played by Drew Cheetwood. The couple eventually split in 2020 as Milo spent extended time traveling.

In 2022, Epiphany decided to pursue a new career path and began studying for the MCAT with the goal of becoming a doctor. After passing her exams, she began exploring medical school options.

In March 2023, Epiphany died off-screen after stopping to help victims at the scene of a car accident on her way back to Port Charles. Smoke inhalation aggravated a pre-existing heart condition, leading to her death. The details of her final act were later revealed by the woman she saved during her memorial service.

Eddy also portrayed Epiphany on the primetime spinoff General Hospital: Night Shift. The character additionally appeared in the novel The Secret Life of Damian Spinelli.

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Eddy died on December 19, 2022, after developing an infection following surgery.

Following her death, the official General Hospital X account posted a tribute to Eddy, writing, “Sonya may be gone, but she'll never be forgotten. Our #GH60 celebration will kick off in March with a celebration of her life and her character, the formidable Epiphany Johnson.”

Sonya may be gone, but she'll never be forgotten. Our #GH60 celebration will kick off in March with a celebration of her life and her character, the formidable Epiphany Johnson. #GH #TCA23 pic.twitter.com/B8dZUjEcdv

— General Hospital (@GeneralHospital) January 11, 2023

Fans paid their respects in the comments of the post, one example of this comes from a fan writing, “Sonya was a very wonderful person who brought so much light and compassion to the show. She will be greatly missed but will live on in the spirit and heart of everyone, friends, family, and community of General Hospital. ❤️ May she Rest In Peace “

For her performance as Epiphany, Eddie was posthumously awarded a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.  

Share your favorite memory of Epiphany in the comments and let's remember the great nurse together.

General Hospital airs weekdays on ABC and streams weeknights on Hulu.

If you, too, fell for the rumour that Cillian Murphy would be the next “He Who Must Not Be Named,” in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series, we don’t blame you!

From Ralph Fiennes giving his blessing to Murphy potentially taking on the role during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live in 2024, to fans’ relentless speculation online, about the same, pouring more fuel on an already blazing rumor.

Now, Murphy has delivered the final word on the matter – and Potterheads, it’s not what you want to hear. Not after witnessing Fiennes’ scary performance as Tom Riddle, the Dark Lord who has haunted audiences for decades. Fans were hoping for someone equally commanding to fill those shoes. And for many fans, Murphy felt like the “chosen one.”

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 10: Cillian Murphy attends the 96th Annual Academy Awards on March 10, 2024 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

Cillian Murphy at the 96th Annual Academy Awards.

In an interview with The Times, Murphy hilariously yet bluntly shut down the speculations. “I’m categorically not. Can you make that the headline?” he said.

Well, there goes the hope of seeing him don the role.

This is not the first time Murphy has dismissed the rumours. Last year, during an appearance on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, he admitted that he wasn’t aware about the fancasting, saying “I don’t know anything about that.”

So far, every major role in the upcoming series has been filled except for the arch-nemesis. And thus, the hunt continues.

The Harry Potter TV series is currently slated to premiere in early 2027.    

Related: Daniel Radcliffe Has One Request from the Press About the New Harry Potter Stars

It's sexy time... and for those curious about which tunes to turn to when it's time to set the mood, a new study is revealing all you need to know about the songs and artists that are most played in the bedroom.

The most popular song, charting at No. 1 with the highest number of total plays on Spotify, isChris Brown's 2019-released "Under the Influence." The track from the iconic singer's album Indigo has been streamed over 1.8 billion times on the music platform.

Meanwhile, the artist who shows up the most across sex playlists, specifically, is The Weekend, according to the study conducted by Fanstats. "The February 2026 report on popularartists people listen to while having sex found that The Weeknd is the most-featured singer in the bedroom. The new study by content creator database Fanstats analyzed Spotify data to see which artists become the soundtrack when partners set the mood," a press release shared directly with Parade stated.

The R&B-pop artist dominates the sex playlist charts with 231 appearances, led by his summer 2014 hit "Often" (1.25 billion streams) from his second studio album, Beauty Behind the Madness, the study found. It's known for its explicit lyrics and slow jam style, making it a sultry choice when preparing for physical connection.

To conduct and compile the research on the best bedroom songs, "the study examined thousands of public Spotify playlists with keywords like 'sex playlist' in their titles and put together the list of the most-streamed artists. The study also identified the songs that appeared the most often, and how many people listened to them overall."

In addition to The Weeknd and Chris Brown, the other artists who comprised the Top 10 list in the study include Two Feet ("I Feel Like I'm Drowning," "Love Is a B---h,") Chase Atlantic ("Into It," "Swim"), Artemas ("If You Think I'm Pretty"), Isabel LaRosa ("I'm Yours," "Older"), Doja Cat ("Streets"), Labrinth ("Mount Everest"), The Neighbourhood ("Softcore"), and Tory Lanez ("Temperature Rising").

"Setting the mood with music is nothing new; the Romans were doing it two thousand years ago. Their most intimate feasts were deliberately orchestrated with live musicians, flute players, and performers, all designed to stir the senses," a Fanstats social media expert noted on the study. "The only difference today is that instead of hiring a flautist, you open Spotify and put on The Weeknd. The instinct is identical. Humans have always used sound to get in the mood, and that's not going to change."

Related: '90s Band's No. 1 Hit Made History 30 Years Ago With a 16-Week Run on the Charts

In the spring of 2026 U.S. airlines are preparing for a truly historic travel rush. Industry data shows that approximately 171 million passengers will fly between March 1 and April 30, an increase over last year’s figures. Airlines are planning roughly 2.8 million passengers per day and are scheduling about 26 000 flights daily with nearly 3.5 million seats in the air. Travelers are flocking to warm weather destinations including South Florida beaches, Mexico’s resorts and a range of Caribbean islands as Americans appear more committed than ever to vacation experiences despite rising fares and crowded airports.

At the same time, safety concerns have suddenly moved to the fore in ways that make this year different from many previous spring breaks.

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Mexico Under the Microscope: Headlines, Reality, and What Travelers Should Know

Over the past few weeks a wave of violent unrest in Mexico made national news. Events followed the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho” and leader of one of Mexico’s most powerful cartels. Retaliatory violence erupted in about 20 of Mexico’s 32 states, triggering road blockages, fires and armed clashes that affected infrastructure in parts of the country. Tourists and residents alike saw dramatic scenes unfold on social media and in breaking news coverage.

At times U.S. Embassy staff were advised to shelter in place in cities like Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta and Ciudad Guzman, while roadblocks and security operations interrupted flights and ground movement. Cruise lines such as Norwegian and Carnival canceled Puerto Vallarta stops on their itineraries due to safety concerns and operational challenges. U.S. political figures even publicly urged spring breakers to cancel travel plans to Mexico until the situation stabilized.

Related: U.S. Warns Americans in Mexico to Shelter in Place as Flights Are Canceled

What the Official Advisories Say

The U.S. Department of State’s travel advisory system is designed to describe risk levels for U.S. citizens abroad. Mexico currently sits at Level 2: exercise increased caution, reflecting concerns about crime and unrest. The advisory does not bar travel but advises Americans to be alert to local conditions and follow basic safety practices.

"Every year, thousands of U.S. citizens visit Mexico during spring break," said U.S. Embassy and Consultants in an official statement on spring break. " While the widespread violence that took place on February 22 following Mexican security operations has ended, risks of crime and kidnapping remain." 

It is crucial to understand that a Level 2 advisory applies nationwide on a broad scale, even though conditions vary dramatically by region. Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel and many other beach destinations continue to operate with robust tourism support and are far from some of the flashpoints of violence. Recent embassy updates lifted specific shelter‑in‑place directives and airport curfews were eased, with both land and air travel resuming largely normal patterns in resort areas.

If you have a trip booked, check your airline’s policy right away. Some carriers have issued travel waivers that allow you to change flights at no extra charge if your itinerary includes certain Mexican airports that were previously affected by unrest. This provides flexibility for travelers who want to adjust plans without penalty.

Caribbean and Nearby Destinations: Beach Plans with a Cautionary Eye

For many this year’s Mexico developments have sparked interest in alternatives. Caribbean destinations from the Dominican Republic to Puerto Rico and The Bahamas continue to draw large numbers of spring breakers.

According to U.S. travel advisory data, most Caribbean nations fall under Level 1 or Level 2, meaning travelers should exercise normal or somewhat increased caution depending on local conditions. For example, Turks and Caicos Islands has a Level 2 warning due to crime concerns and strict enforcement of local laws, including rules about firearms and even stray ammunition in luggage. Travelers have been detained for inadvertent violations of those laws, so awareness of local regulations is essential.

Related: Budget Airline Refuses to Reschedule Couple’s Postponed Destination Wedding Flight Despite Travel Advisory

Certain destinations like Haiti and Venezuela appear on official government lists at Level 4, do not travel, due to violent crime, political instability and limited infrastructure. Other countries including Jamaica, the Dominican Republic and The Bahamas may carry Level 2 or Level 3 advisories, which means you must evaluate your comfort level with risk, consult up‑to‑date government guidance and plan strategically if you choose to go.

When I ask travel advisers about their favorite off‑the‑beaten‑path picks, their answers often include islands with well‑established resort zones and stable local infrastructure. They also stress that reading the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program updates and following official embassy information will keep you more informed than relying on social media alone.

Real World Travel Choices and Safety PracticesPractical Steps Before You Go

Here’s the checklist I always share with friends who ask “Is it safe to travel right now”:

• Check official advisory levels frequently before departure and monitor embassy updates for your exact destination.
• Enroll in government travel alert services for real‑time alerts while abroad.
• Purchase travel insurance that includes coverage for trip interruptions, evacuation and medical assistance.
• Plan airport and ground transfers through reputable services or hotels so you are not navigating unfamiliar streets after arrival.
• Stay aware in nightlife and urban areas and carry only what you need when you go out for the day.

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Health and Safety Considerations

Beyond violent crime and security warnings travelers also face everyday risks in warmer climates: mosquito‑borne illnesses, strong sun, dehydration and crowded public spaces. Local health systems may vary in quality across destinations, so I always plan for basic medical needs before departure and keep easy‑access contact information for U.S. embassies and consulates.

Traveling in groups, sharing your itinerary with friends or family and maintaining regular check‑ins are timeless safety practices that help mitigate unexpected situations.

NASCAR is mourning the death of former NASCAR driver Chase Pistone at the age of 42. The Charlotte, N.C., native hailed from deep NASCAR roots as the grandson of two-time NASCAR Cup Series race winner “Tiger” Tom Pistone, a stock car racing legend.

Family Shares Heartbreaking Tribute

In a post shared to Facebook, Pistone’s brother Nick Pistone shared the tragic news, writing:

“Well my young brother and best friend is gone.
I'm broken hearted and don't know if I'll ever get over this. I miss you, Chase, already and I hope you are in a better place.
I love you and I miss you so much already!!!!!!!”

In the post, the elder Pistone brother accompanied the announcement with a charming childhood photo of Chase, as well as a more recent photo of him smiling in a car racing suit.

Fans rushed to the comment section to offer condolences on the passing of Chase Pistone. One wrote, “May he finally RIP.” Another added, “Extremely sorry for your loss, Nick Pistone. You and your entire family will be in our thoughts.”

“Praying for you and your family,” shared another. “Chase was one of the best. It’s a huge loss.”

“Sad news: Chase Pistone, a fixture in motorsports and especially Legend Car racing, has passed away. Legends Nation confirmed with his brothers, Nick and Tom. Chase was not only a wheelman in Legends and Late Models, but his Chase Pistone Inc. Legends team was a force to be reckoned with every time they showed up at a track, and they usually walked away with the winner’s trophy,” Legends Nation shared online.

“Tom and Nick requested Legends Nation post the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which is 988 on a phone or text. At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we understand that life's challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you're facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone.”

NASCAR star Bubba Wallaceposted on Twitter/X, “A guy I raced with in legends cars took his life today..,” though Wallace did not share the racer’s name.

Been in the feels..

Woke up Sunday morning at 2am wide awake.. stumbled across an old tune that shook me. Only to realize later on at 2am was when the shooting happened in Austin..

A guy I raced with in legends cars took his life today..

Just a lot of damn sadness man..

— Bubba Wallace (@BubbaWallace) March 3, 2026 Racing Career and Accomplishments

Chase Pistone began racing at a young age and quickly gained respect in Legends and Late Model competition, achieving more than 80 feature wins and winning the Summer Shootout Championship Legends four times. Pistone competed in multiple national series, including the ARCA Menards Series, the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, as well as what is now the NASCAR Xfinity Series.

A Family Legacy in NASCAR

With deep familial roots in NASCAR, Chase Pistone was the grandson of NASCAR veteran “Tiger” Tom Pistone, who recorded multiple wins in the NASCAR Cup Series through the 1950s and 1960s.

Nick Pistone did not share Chase Pistone’s cause of death.

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.

Just announced—get ready, '90s music lovers, the Oceans Calling music festival has officially dropped another incredible lineup for 2026, including Twenty One Pilots, Gwen Stefani, Dave Matthews Band, Matchbox Twenty, Hootie & the Blowfish, Liz Phair, Mumford & Sons, and the Goo Goo Dolls, just to name a few. Don't wait—presale tickets for the fall festival go on sale this week!

For the fourth year in a row, the three-day Oceans Calling Festival will hit the boardwalk in Ocean City, Maryland. This year's festival dates are Sept. 25-27, 2026.

The 2026 Oceans Calling lineup includes a fantastic mix of favorites, including:

• Dave Matthews Band
• Hootie & The Blowfish
• Twenty One Pilots
• Gwen Stefani
• Liz Phair
• Goo Goo Dolls
• Mumford & Sons
• Matchbox Twenty
• 311
• Shaggy
• Third Eye Blind
• Susanna Hoffs
• Violent Femmes
• OAR
• Better Than Ezra
• Everclear
• All Time Low
• And more!
  
  Check out the entire lineup:

View this post on Instagram

Last year's beachfront festival, which headlined with Green Day, Lenny Kravitz, Fall Out Boy, and others, drew tens of thousands of music fans to the beach venue.

Today, '90s music fanatics are already popping off with nostalgic excitement in the comments.

"This is actually so much better than anticipated 👏 another unreal lineup. Just third eye blind, matchbox and goo goo dolls alone at one festival is crazy good work," says one fan.

Another calls the festival lineup, "Boombastic, fantastic, and romantic."

"TWENTY ONE PILOTS OMG," one fans types.

And, it seems at least one Ocean City fan is pretty stoked, "GOO GOO DOLLS IN OCMD LETS GO."

The Dave Matthews Band posted the festival news on their Instagram today, too.

Related: Dave Matthews Band to Headline Major 2026 Music Festival

There's definitely something for everyone in this year's festival on the Ocean City Boardwalk. For tickets and information, head over to the Oceans Calling Festival website. Presale starts Thursday, March 5, 2026 at 10am ET.

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While Barry Manilowcontinues to recover from lung surgery, he took to Instagram to share an update with fans.

Sharing that his song "Once Before I Go," has "just entered the Top 10 on the pop chart," which he referred to as "great news," he also took the opportunity to provide an update on his health, following his lung surgery, due to his cancer diagnosis, which led him to postpone tour dates for his upcoming farewell tour.

View this post on Instagram

"I also want to say thank you for all of you for your messages of support in these last couple of months," he continued. "It's been a long ride and since I have no patience it's been agony, but I am getting stronger and I have great doctors and wonderful friends and family, but I am so looking forward to getting back on stage."

Fans, of course, couldn't help but send their best wishes to the music icon.

"So happy for you Barry. Congratulations," one fan said of the pop chart achievement. "Wishing you a speedy recovery ❤️‍🩹. Stay well"

"Been thinking about you and praying for your recovery too! Looking forward to seeing you soon," another added.

"Congratulations Barry!" added a third. "So happy to see you up and about. Here's to continued healing. Love you!"

Last month, Manilow announced that he was postponing upcoming shows of his tour after sharing that his doctor told him "your lungs aren't ready yet," in an Instagram announcement on Feb. 20.

Related: ’70s Rock Icon Forced to Postpone Shows Amid Health Concerns

The "Can't Smile Without You" singer has been keeping fans updated since his diagnosis with regular social media posts. After his initial surgery, the 82-year-old shared a screen shot from the hospital saying he was "better today" in January.

Continuing to stay on the positive side in Tuesday's post, Manilow also informed fans that his new album 'What a Time,' "comes out real soon."

"I can't wait to share these songs with you," he said. "Here's to another century of making music together my friends."

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

Ethan Zohn is celebrating a number of milestones in 2026. Of course, we recently hit the 50th season of Survivor, the show that made him a million-dollar winner and a three-time player. But it also marks the 20th anniversary of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center’s "Cycle for Survival," a rare cancer fundraising program. It's an incredibly meaningful cause to the 52-year-old, given how the twists and turns of the past two decades have made him a survivor in more ways than one.

"In 2009 I was diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer called  CD20-positive non-Hodgkin's lymphoma," the Survivor: Africa winner tells Parade in an exclusive interview. "Trust me, I had never heard of it either at the time. I had to go through multiple rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, and then I ended up having two bone marrow transplants, which is a pretty stressful situation."

🔥Don’t miss our weekly Survivor newsletter! Sign up to get Mike Bloom’s exclusive interviews with the players and the latest news about the show right to your inbox.🔥

He continues "But what was really scary is after my first transplant failed, all of a sudden, I was in a situation where I needed a specific drug to get my cancer determination long enough so I could go on to get this second stem cell transplant, which would hopefully save my life. And so this drug was exactly the type of drug that Cycle for Survival funds."

To date, Cycle for Survival has raised more than $440 million to support MSK's pursuit to fight rare cancers. For the 20th anniversary, they expect 30,000 participants and 155,000 donors across all 2026 events.

"Cycle for Survival is an indoor cycling event, so anyone can participate," Ethan explains. "You don't need to know how to ride a bike. You just have to know how to ride a stationary bike. They host these events all across the country, at Equinox gyms, and it's an incredible fun day. You ride your bike, there's music pumping. There's cameras, there's food, there's tons of people. And you're all riding for something much bigger than yourself: To fund rare cancer research."

The final weekend of New York City events for Cycle of Survival will take place March 4 to March 8 across multiple Equinox clubs. For more information, and to register to ride, go to cycleforsurvival.org. Other events will also be held across the NYC tristate area over the next two weeks.

Of course, in speaking with Ethan, Parade had to get his thoughts on the recent premiere of Survivor 50. He reflects on his cameo in the episode's epic opening montage, watching his former tribemate (and ex-girlfriend) Jenna Lewis-Dougherty become the first boot, and which Season 50 cast member he gave advice to before the season.

Related: Meet the Full Cast of Survivor 50

It's been over ten years since you've been cancer-free. How does it feel as we get further and further away from that date?
It was interesting, because when Season 40 was announced, this was in 2020, I was a little nervous to be able to say yes to go out and play, because I had just survived cancer, and I wasn't necessarily in a place mentally, physically, spiritually, to go out there and play again. And I remember when I was in my stem cell transplant in 2010, I was watching Heroes vs. Villains. And I was watching all my buddies, all my friends, play one of the best seasons of Survivor of all time. And I'm like, "I'm here, stuck in a hospital room. If I ever get out of this transplant alive, I'm gonna get myself fit and ready to go play Survivor."

Season 40 comes around, and it was difficult. Just knowing what I had been through, but understanding that I was in a good place, and that I shifted my gameplay a little bit to be happy with whatever happens out there. Because I'm now alive, I have a new lease on life. I'd been treated at Sloan Kettering, and I was funded by drugs that were funded by Cycle forSsurvival. So I was in a good spot when it came back to 40. And the more time I get away from my diagnosis, the initial diagnosis, the better I feel. And I'm just happy to be alive, happy to participate.

Of course, I'd be remiss not to get your thoughts on this most recent returnee season, Survivor 50. Especially one person in particular in your former all-star, tribe member and girlfriend, Jenna Lewis-Dougherty. What was your reaction when you saw she'd be coming back for the first time since All-Stars?
My initial reaction when I found out was like, "Why didn't you call me?!" You should have called me! You should have asked me, "What was it like?" Because I played in Season 40, and then, obviously, we're now a bunch of years later. But I know Jenna was out of the loop, and she hasn't played since 2004, and so I was surprised.

But putting that aside, I was a little bit nervous for her coming into this game. Because I put myself in her position, because I felt I was in the same position when I went to go play 40. Completely out of the loop, don't know the other players. I'm not a pre-gamer; I want to show up, and I want to play. And I think that's the attitude that Jenna Lewis took when she was coming to play for Season 50 was a fresh start, not be influenced by this pregame situation. But we saw what happened out there. And I just think she went out a little too hard, a little too aggressive. And of course, she targeted one of the most beloved players of all time. Which is a smart move, but maybe just not that early.

For what it's worth, when I asked her before the season who she wished was out there, she said you!
Aww, that's nice of her. Having said that, I wasn't happy with my Survivor: All-Stars relationship with Jenna Lewis. Because the entire strategy for most of the players, including Jenna Lewis, was, "Let's get the winners off first." And she took a similar style this game, right? She's like, "Cirie's got a really good story," which she does. And then so she's targeting the big names, the big guns, kind of like what she did on All-Stars. "Let's not let a winner win again. They've already won. We don't need them in the game." And I think she just took a similar approach, and she could have read the room a little bit better. And I was hoping that the old schoolers would stick together: Ozzy, Cirie, and Jenna Lewis.

You mentioned before about having to immediately adjust to how the game changed between All-Stars and Winners at War. And we're experiencing that now to an even greater extent with all of the "new era" players on Survivor 50. Do you feel like old-school players have to come in and immediately adjust?
This new game, it's so fast. You've got to play fast and make big moves the second you hit the beach. And she did, and it just didn't work out. I played Season 40, which was, I guess, on the way to the new era, right? There was still 39 days, obviously had all the idols, clues, advantages. I think an old-school player does have to adapt in a major way. I mean, you, you saw it instantly where, Rizo, he's sitting around watching Colby lug logs and bamboo. And he's like, "Dude, we don't play that way anymore. The provider role, it doesn't matter. We don't care. We're gonna vote you off no matter what, no matter what you do for the tribe." So I thought that was very interesting. You got a new era player coaching an old school player like Colby on how to play the game, hen, in my mind, it should be the opposite.

But the game is so different. The game moves fast, and I do think the old-school players are going to have to adapt and change their style of play to fit in with this new era game. The speed at which the game is played is warp speed. There was so much time in the old school days where you could really develop those relationships and the social game. Challenges had a little bit more weight than they do now. Idols had more weight. There's just so many different inputs.

And luck is a big part of this game. How the tribes shake out, what you uncover. All of that is such a big part of the game that it's really hard to prepare. And with this new theme, "In the Hands of the Fans," I actually like it. I was totally against it. Like, "This is stupid." But as a player going out there knowing that you really can't prepare for anything and predict what may or may not come, because, in theory, the fans have already pre-decided. So for me, I would be a freeing moment knowing, "I've got to play in the moment. I can't look forward too much, and obviously I can't hang out in the past." So I think that's exciting. If I were playing now, I'd be excited about "In the Hands of the Fans."

This season also sees the return of another fellow all-star in Colby. What was your reaction to seeing the energy he's bringing into Season 50?
I love it. I absolutely love it. And I did have the opportunity to chat with Colby before he left. And he wasn't a sure thing. He got the call, and he was very unsure. Like, "I don't know if you even want to go out there and play and just get in the mindset where you leave your life, go play the game of Survivor," especially when he's been out of it for so long.

I think he wanted a little bit of redemption. He watched his past seasons, he saw how he played, he saw how the fans responded to him. And I think he could have done better back then, and I think he realizes that. And just one of the big things that he talked about is just having fun. There's a weird thing when you come back to play the show again, is it's more of a business situation. The first time you play, it is new. Everything's exciting. It's unbelievable. You come back and you're like, "Oh, man, why am I on a beach again, starving, thirsty? Why am I doing this?" It just becomes more of a business opportunity in the sense that, "Let's get through this. Let's play as hard as I can."

And — at least initially. It's been one episode, what do we know? But it just seems like he's enjoying it. He's having fun. I think the pressure of performing at such a high level is down a little bit, because he's an older dude. "I can't hear out of my left ear," all that stuff's happening. And I think that for him, it just gives him a blank slate to go out there, have fun and just do the best that he possibly can with no pressure. And I think that's going to change his game.

Ethan Zohn (L) with Cycle for Survival co-founder Dave Linn (R)

Courtesy of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Related: Colby Donaldson Is Back for ‘Survivor’ 50 — And Reveals Why He’s Ready for Redemption (Exclusive)

What advice did you give Colby, considering you played more recently than him?
That was the exact advice I gave him. "Go out there and have fun, because this is a really fun game." And I gave him the idea of, like, "Listen, you could have goals to achieve in the game." And for me, when I went out for 40, I had two sets of goals. I had my game goals, and then my life goals. In my game goals, yeah, I want a blindside. I want to win a challenge. I want to make it to the merge. I want to light a fire in the Final Four Firemaking challenge. Those are the game goals.

And I also had life goals. Like, "Hey, I want to watch a sunset". I want to catch a fish. I want to sleep under the stars. I want to meet people and make friends that's going to last beyond 26 days or 39 days. And so no matter what happened in the game goals — which clearly for me, total debacle — I achieved the life goals, and I had a really successful, fun experience.

And the other part of it was, just as Jeff says all the time, be authentic. Be who you are. Don't try to perform or make stuff up for the camera, or say stuff you think people want to hear you say. Just be yourself. This new era, these kids, these millennials, it just all comes out all the time. They can't keep a secret. They tell everyone everything. So kind of following that, the more you give of yourself, I think the more we'll come back to you. And people will trust you and gravitate towards an authentic leader.

Besides Colby, who from the remaining Survivor 50 cast are you rooting for?
I'm obviously leaning towards old school. I've got to do it. I'm sorry. Colby, Cirie, Ozzy, I would love to see them do well. I was really rooting for Kyle, to be honest. Those are the main people I want to see go far in the game. I do love a Christian. I think he's just a really fascinating character. And obviously he's got the mindset and the strategy and the data to make it through. And I hope to see him go really far, because I think he's non-threatening. It's the non threatening players that I think that people look over.

Like Kamilla is really non-threatening. She's so adorable. She's wearing a little hood. She looks like a little meerkat; she pops up, makes a move, then disappears for a little while. So I'd love to see Kamilla go far. I just think she's an interesting people are going to overlook her maybe a little bit and not think she's threatening, and then she can kind of come back around and do damage. I think without Kyle, she's going to be freed. Kyle was holding her back.

She told me as much before the season, that she felt in a way Kyle being out there was an anchor, considering how dangerous the idea of the two of them together would be.
And I felt that a little that way on Survivor: All-Stars, because Lex, Tom and myself were on separate tribes. And I think there was an underlying nervousness that if we made it to the merge and link back up together, we are going to be a power threesome again. And so I think that was in Lex's mind, and probably Tom's mind. And so, when I got on the tribe with Lex, he instantly voted me off. I wouldn't have gone after Lex. I don't think it would have been a problem, in my opinion. If you see how that game shook down, I still probably would have been the first one voted out after the merge in that situation. So anyway, obviously, with or without Kyle there, Kamilla can play a much freer game.

Finally, we got to see you as a part of the epic five-minute montage that kicked off the episode, highlighting some of the biggest characters and moments of the first 49 seasons. How did it feel to see yourself as a part of that, especially considering how much Survivor set your life on a completely different path?
It was wonderful to be in the rewind. This show put me on a rocket ship and launched my life in a way that I can never, ever thank CBS and Survivor enough. And you hear a lot of us say that. But because of Survivor, I was able to start grassroots soccer. Because of Survivor, we are now in 65 countries, and we've graduated over 25 million kids from the program. And that's all because I played hacky sack in a little village in Wamba, delivering HIV kits. So this show has an impact.

And just to bring that a little bit further, you heard me say it in Season 40, and it has to do with my cancer. But you know, back then, we formed a partnership between Stand Up to Cancer and Survivor to create "Survivor Stand Up to Cancer." And so the props for the show are auctioned off on eBay to raise money for cancer research through Stand Up to Cancer. And some of the money raised through Stand Up to Cancer funded the drug that saved my life. Wild, right?!

I mean, think about that. Think about the impact a show has. It's literally saving lives. And I don't think people see that next level of the show, because it's really fun, it's entertaining. But the people that are on the show, it gives them an incredible platform to achieve goals once they're off. People talk about the pregame, they talk about the real game. I talk about the post-game. I think I won the post-game, and I'm proud of that. So if there's a prize for winning the post-game, please, Probst, send it my way!

Game of Thronesfans, rejoice! The gruesome universe of greed, heroism, and dragons is about to reach the big screen. 

After years of rumors about whether the epic fantasy book series would ever hit the big screen, Warner Bros. is finally making it happen. 

Page Sixreported that the production giant was moving forward with a Game of Thrones movie, with House of Cards showrunner Beau Willimon writing the script for the highly anticipated project. 

The report suggests that Andor writer Willimon has submitted the initial draft of the script to the production house. As per the reports, the movie, which is said to be a prequel, will primarily focus on the first ruler of the Iron Throne, Aegon I Targaryen, who had three dragons and a loyal army. According to the source material, Aegon crossed the sea from Dragonstone to turn seven warring kingdoms into one single empire. 

This film would take fans back hundreds of years before the events of the original show. While we have already seen the Targaryen family at the height of their power in House of the Dragon, this movie would show how their dynasty actually started. It might turn out to be a story of war, dragons, and the literal forging of the most famous chair in the history of the fantasy genre. 

Caraxes roars in House of the Dragon season 3

HBO

Warner Bros. is reportedly very excited about the script. This move marks a big shift for the franchise, which has mostly stayed on television. Prequels such as House of the Dragon and recently premiered, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, have turned out to be massively successful for HBO and Warner Bros. Now, with the announcement of a movie, fans are excited to see if they will see a sneak peek of it in the upcoming seasons of the aforementioned shows.

While there is no word yet on who will direct the movie or which actors will be cast to play the early Targaryens, the fact that a script is already in the hands of the studio means things are moving fast. For fans who have missed the scale and drama of the original series, this movie promises to bring back that same sense of wonder but on a much larger scale.

Related: How To Read Every 'Game of Thrones' Book in Order (Including the Prequels)

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If you’ve started packing for your spring break getaway and realized your luggage could use an upgrade, you’re not alone. Right now, retailers like Walmart are offering major deals on suitcases, carry-ons and entire luggage sets, just in time for warm weather travel. When shopping for new luggage, it’s important to look for key features that make traveling easier, including durable materials that can withstand long trips, TSA-approved locks for added security and smooth rolling wheels for effortless navigation.

Other features like lightweight designs, compartments for origination and expandable zippers are an added bonus. Below we are rounding up a few of the best luggage deals we are seeing on sale right now that are most definitely worth a buy. 

Famistar 11-Piece Hardside Luggage Suitcase Set, $80 (was $700) at Walmart

Courte

Who doesn't love a one purchase moment that can serve an entire family? This 11-piece set from Walmart is on an extreme discount right now, going from $700 to just $80 for 11 pieces. That's an 89% discount. It has over 1,000 ratings, too, including some that call them the "best suitcases ever." 

Joyway 3-Piece Front Opening Cover Carry-On Luggage, $55 (was $109) at Walmart 

This sleek three-piece set from Walmart is around 50% off and has a front compartment that makes it easy to store things like travel documents, laptops, iPads, or other quick grab items that you might need access to while on the go. That white and dark brown colorway is ultra-chic, too. 

Travelhouse Hardshell Carry-On Luggage With Spinner Wheels, $40 (was $99) at Walmart

This hardshell carry-on from Travelhouse is made with durability and stability in mind, with multiple reviewers (there's over 4,000 ratings, so you know it's legit) calling it the "perfect carryon." According to the brand, the luggage is made of 100% ABS material which is impact resistant — think less scratches and overall wear and tear. Plus, the luggage is extremely lightweight at only 5.62 lbs.

Tripcomp Luggage 4-Piece Suitcase Set, $90 (was $170) at Walmart

With over 3,000 reviews, this 4-piece set from Tripcomp is beloved by Walmart shoppers for a multitude of reasons. It comes with everything you could need: a 14-inch cosmetic case, a 20-inch carry-on that meets most airline requirements, and 24-inch and 28-inch suitcases ideal for longer vacations and getaways. Just need three suitcases? Check out this bestselling trio from the brand too.

Bugatti Brussels 3-Piece Hardside Luggage Set, $220 (was $1,160) at Nordstrom

We know it's not technically from Walmart, but if you are looking for a luxe luggage investment, this Bugatti Brussels 3-Piece Hardside Luggage Set is a whopping 81% off after going from over $1,100 to just $220. Though hardside, each piece in this set is expandable for those overpackers out there (we see you and we support you). 

Shop More Deals

• Tripcomp Luggage 3-Piece Set, $80 (was $169) at Walmart 
• TravelPro Pilot Air 2 Expandable Checked Luggage, $150 (was $440) at Nordstrom Rack 
• Coolife Luggage 3-Piece Set, $114 (was $150) at Amazon
  

Whether or not you have upcoming travel plans, it's always a good idea to invest in luggage that is both durable, well-made, and will last you through multiple vacations to come. It’s even better when you can find quality options at a discounted price, allowing you to upgrade without overspending. Happy travels!  

In 1976, Manfred Mann’s Earth Band released the hit single “Blinded By the Light.” The song was written by Bruce Springsteen and was the opening track on his debut album Greetings from Asbury  Park, in 1973.

But Manfred Mann’s version of the song became a much bigger hit than Springsteen’s. The English-based rock group released their version of “Blinded by the Light” on November 20, 1976, and it peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1977. Misheard lyrics for the line “revved up like a deuce" made the song legendary.

Bruce Springsteen didn’t like the cover version

Springsteen was not a fan of the cover of “Blinded by the Light.” In a 2025 interview with Guitar Player, Manfred Mann's Earth Band singer and guitarist Chris Thompson shared the backstory on Springsteen’s beef. Thompson met up with the “Born to Run” singer after a 1979 show in Zurich, where he asked him what he thought of Manfred Mann’s version of the song.

“I said to him, ‘Bruce, what did you think about ‘Blinded by the Light?’” Thompson recalled. “He took a little while to reply, and he said, ‘What’s the other band that you’re playing in at the moment?’ By this time, I’d begun playing with a band called Night, and we had a hit with our song, ’Hot Summer Nights.' So, I said, ‘Oh, you mean Night?' He said, ‘Yeah.’ I said, ‘Oh, it’s called ‘Hot Summer Nights.’ He said, ‘I like that song.’”

“So he didn’t like our version of ‘Blinded by the Light,’” Thompson said. “I’ve since found out that he hated it. Yeah, he really disliked it.

“He was upset that it had ‘douche’ in it and that we’d actually changed some of the words,”  Thomspon further explained.

Manfred Man changed lyrics but didn’t actually use that D word

In Springsteen’s version of “Blinded by the Light,” the original line goes “cut loose like a deuce.”  “I didn’t really want to sing that, I don’t know why,” Thompson admitted to Guitar Player.

Manfred Mann changed  the line to “revved up like a deuce.” But radio listeners heard it as “douche.”

Thompson told Music Night at the Majestic on YouTube that the last word in the lyric sounded funny due to a mix-up with the tape machine. “[The sound engineer], he comes in an hour early and lines up the tape machine. And when I did my vocal, he didn't line it up before we did the vocal,” Thompson explained. “So when we came to mix it, the azimuth, it didn't line up. So that's why it's got that kind of thing, which probably made it a hit I think because people have to listen to it all over again. And you know what they say about repetition on radio. I mean, we did 50 radio stations in three weeks in America to explain that it wasn't ‘douche’ and that it was ‘deuce.’”

Of Springsteen, he added, “So he obviously was upset about it because they weren't his words."

Springsteen later addressed the changed lyrics during an appearance on VH1’s Storytellers, and he seemed to be a little more forgiving of the song that made him a lot of money as a songwriter—and became the only No. 1 hit of his career.

When explaining the meaning of “Blinded by the Light,” he said, per Louder, “One version is about a car, the other is about a feminine hygiene product. Guess which the kids liked to shout more?”

“I have a feeling that's why the song skyrocketed to No. 1," Springsteen admitted on Storytellers. "The public spoke, and they were right."

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