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I Learned How To Make Kevin’s Chili from 'The Office' Star Brian Baumgartner, and Nothing Compares
Some recipes come from cookbooks—others come straight from sitcom history.
I met Brian Baumgartner (yes, Kevin from The Office) at Bush’s Chili Nights in NYC—an event centered around celebrating the ritual of chili night dinners—and what I expected to be a quick hello turned into a full-on chili masterclass. Somewhere between handshakes and simmering pots, I found myself getting a personal walkthrough of the recipe.
The infamous chili is forever tied to the iconic TV show. You can practically picture the oversized pot and that painfully unforgettable spill scene. But what struck me most wasn’t the pop culture nostalgia, but rather how genuinely into the dish Baumgartner was.
He talked seasoning, texture, timing—how to layer flavor properly and why patience matters. He broke down why you don’t rush the simmer, why spices need time to bloom and how balance is everything. This wasn’t a gimmick. It was a dish he actually makes. Regularly. For friends, family and real-life chili nights that (hopefully) don’t end in disaster.
So I went home and tried it myself. Then I made it again…and again. It quickly morphed from a fun experiment into one of my signature dishes because it was that delicious. It became my go-to for cold Sundays, casual dinner parties and nights when I wanted something hearty that felt like a hug in a bowl. It’s rich without being heavy, deeply seasoned and wildly adaptable. Over time, I’ve tweaked small things to suit my pantry and my tastes—but the bones of it remain the same.
Now, I’m walking you through exactly how to make Kevin’s famous chili, step by step, so you can add it to your regular rotation, too. Read on for everything you need to know to make it in your kitchen—and yes, tips to avoid any disastrous spills.
Related: How to Make Chili 10x Better, According to My Chef-Husband
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Courtesy Alyssa Rotunno
If you're a fan of The Office, you already understand the legend of Kevin’s chili. The scene—where Baumgartner’s character proudly lugs a massive pot into the Scranton office using oversize blue oven mitts, only to slip and send it splattering across the very neutral corporate carpet—has become one of the most replayed, memed and quoted moments in sitcom history. It’s chaotic, slightly heartbreaking—and comedy gold.
But the chili itself is no joke. Off-screen, Baumgartner actually makes the recipe regularly for friends and family, and it’s the real deal. The recipe shared on Bush's website has taken on a life of its own, beloved not just by die-hard fans but also by serious chili devotees. It’s rich, hearty and unapologetically cozy.
What Ingredients Do You Need?Courtesy Alyssa Rotunno
To make Kevin’s iconic chili (and ideally keep it in the pot), gather butter, shallots, chopped green peppers, ground turkey and plenty of garlic to build that savory base. The cozy factor really kicks in with pinto beans and kidney beans—bonus points if you can snag the Bush's versions in mild chili sauce—plus diced tomatoes, water and tomato paste to create that rich, slow-simmered foundation.
Then comes the flavor. Black pepper, salt, chili powder, ancho chili powder, sugar and oregano all go in, layering some heat, depth and just a touch of sweetness so every bite feels hearty and satisfying. As for toppings, these are optional, in theory, but are essential in practice.
Baumgartner recommends a generous handful of shredded cheddar and a cool dollop of sour cream. And if you really want to do it right, serve it with homemade cornbread on the side—because if you’re committing to Kevin’s chili, you might as well go all in.
Related: My 3-Ingredient Turkey Chili Is a Weeknight Winner
How To Make Kevin's Famous Chili from 'The Office'Courtesy Alyssa Rotunno
Start by getting your aromatics in order. Chop the shallots and green pepper (I grabbed a red pepper because that’s what my store had—and honestly, it worked beautifully), and have your garlic ready to go.
In a large pot, sauté the shallots and pepper in butter (or oil) over low heat until they’re soft and fragrant. You want them tender and translucent, not browned into oblivion. This is the flavor base, so let the mixture cook slowly and gently.
Next, add the ground turkey and garlic, breaking up the meat as it cooks until everything turns a rich golden brown. A pinch of salt and pepper here wakes everything up. Once the turkey is fully cooked, drain any excess grease (there might not be much because turkey is so lean) and give it a good stir so all those flavors mingle.
Courtesy Alyssa Rotunno
Now for the good part. Stir in both cans of beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, water and every spice—black pepper, salt, chili powder, ancho chili powder, oregano and sugar. Mix thoroughly so nothing’s left hanging out on top.
Bring the chili to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you have the patience, let it go a little longer. The extra time deepens the flavor and helps create a nice, thick texture.
Courtesy Alyssa Rotunno
Ladle the chili into bowls and top as you please. Baumgartner keeps it classic with shredded cheddar and sour cream. I went rogue with avocado and crunchy tortilla chips. However you finish it, just keep a firm grip on the pot.
Related: I Tried Martina McBride’s Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup and It Genuinely Surprised Me
Courtesy Alyssa Rotunno
Ready to make this dish? These are the tips and tricks you need to know.
1. Season more than onceWhen it comes to building a truly great pot of chili, layering flavor is everything. The number one rule? Season well, and season often, says Baumgartner. That doesn’t mean dumping everything in at once and hoping for the best—instead, salt a little when you sauté the aromatics, taste again after the meat browns and adjust once the spices bloom. Chili rewards attention, so small tweaks along the way make a big difference in the final bowl.
2. Take your timeOf course, no conversation about Kevin’s chili is complete without that line from The Office: "The trick is to undercook the onions." While that moment lives rent-free in sitcom history, there’s actually wisdom tucked inside the joke.
Letting the ingredients simmer together (without overcooking the base into mush) means the flavors meld slowly and intentionally. Give the chili time. Let the spices deepen, the beans soften and the tomatoes thicken into something rich and cohesive.
One more insider tip is to not rush the simmer. Even after the suggested 20 minutes, an extra 10 to 15 minutes can transform the texture from good to deliciously hearty.
4. Taste againAlways taste before serving and adjust as needed. Chili should feel balanced—savory, slightly sweet and gently smoky with heat that lingers but doesn’t overwhelm. Nail that, and you’ve got a pot worthy of Scranton legend status.
Related: I Tried 15 Popular Canned Chilis and the Winner Totally Surprised Me
Walmart’s $45 Heated Bed Blanket With Dual Controls Is a 'Game Changer' for Couples
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There aren't many things worse than being so cold you can't sleep — though, perhaps some would say being too hot to sleep is also a major problem. When you're sharing a bed with someone whose ideal sleeping temperature doesn't align with yours, you could both be in for a restless night without the right bedding. Luckily, Walmart has a large heated blanket that's the perfect solution. The best part? It's currently on sale for less than $50.
Now 59% off its usual $110 price with a Walmart flash sale, the Marnur Heated Bed Blanket is only $45. This queen-size electric blanket features two controls that allow you to adjust the temperature on each side of the bed individually. Because each side is controlled independently, it's easy to find the perfect temperature to keep you cozy all night long without disturbing your sleeping partner.
Marnur Heated Bed Blanket, From $45 (was $110) at WalmartThe blanket's four-layer design includes ultra-soft flannel on one side and shu velvet, a thick, weft-knitted cotton-polyester blend, on the other. Heating wires are evenly spaced and coiled throughout each side, adjustable from 80 to 113 degrees Fahrenheit with each side's attached controller. To use the blanket, plug in the wall adapter to a standard outlet and choose from 10 temperature settings on each control.
There's a preheat option that allows you to warm the blanket up slowly so that the heat transfers from the blanket to your bed before you get in. With this feature, you can ensure that both your bed and your bedding are warm enough to keep you toasty all night long. An adjustable timer with an automatic 10-hour shut-off built in prevents overheating.
When it's time for a refresh, simply detach the plug and controllers and toss the blanket in the washing machine on a cold cycle. Available in three colors, the best deal right now is on the beige color, but brown and gray are also on sale for $54 and $56, respectively, which still offers significant savings.
Related: Refresh Your Home With These Expert-Approved Spring Decor Styles, Starting at Just $7
Shoppers were impressed by this blanket's "super soft" feel and "even heat distribution." One called it a "game changer" for staying cozy when it's cold outside, and noted that it keeps them "very warm and toasty," even if the opposite side of the blanket is not turned on. Another shared, "The dual control keeps my partner and I both happy!"
Shop More Deals- Marnur Faux Fur Heated Throw, $37 (was $70) at Walmart
- Keenstone Double-Sided Flannel Electric Bed Blanket, $49 (was $103) at Walmart
- Maxkare Queen Electric Heated Blanket, $50 (was $130) at Walmart
To get you through the rest of winter without shivering yourself to sleep every night, head to Walmart to snag the Marnur Heated Bed Blanket while it's on sale for just $45. Flash sales don't last long, so hurry to secure one before this deal ends!
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.
John Davidson Claims BBC Edited Out Homophobic Verbal Tic Towards Alan Cumming
Tourette's advocate John Davdison says the BBC had edited out an involuntary homophobic comment directed at BAFTAs host Alan Cumming.
Davidson, who has been in recent controversy after involuntarily calling Michael B. Jordanand Delroy Lindo a racial slur, says that the BBC edited out other verbal tics. These included homophobic insults directed at Cumming who was the host for the 2026 BAFTAs ceremony that took place on Sunday, Feb. 22.
The BBC aired the ceremony on a two hour delay but the racial slur said by Davidson was not omitted from the broadcast. The corporation apologized for their failure to properly edit the broadcast and removed it temporarily from their streaming service IPlayer.
Davidson criticized the BBC for their failure to action, telling Variety, “I have made four documentaries with the BBC in the past, and feel that they should have been aware of what to expect from Tourette’s and worked harder to prevent anything that I said – which, after all, was some 40 rows back from the stage – from being included in the broadcast."
Davidson revealed that during the ceremony, a joke about Paddington Bear made by Cumming triggered an involuntary homophobic verbal tic.
"Alan Cumming joked about his own sexuality and, when referencing Paddington Bear, said, ‘Maybe you would like to come home with me, Paddington. It wouldn’t be the first time I have taken a hairy Peruvian bear home with me,'" he said. "This resulted in homophobic tics from me and led to a shout of ‘pedophile’ that was likely triggered because Paddington Bear is a children’s character."
Davidson added, "I would appreciate reports of the event explaining that I ticked perhaps 10 different offensive words on the night of the awards. The N-word was one of these, and I completely understand its significance in history and in the modern world, but most articles are giving the impression I shouted one single slur on Sunday."
Cumming had addressed the audience following Davidson shouting the N-word saying," Tourette’s Syndrome is a disability and the tics you’ve heard tonight are involuntary, which means the person who has Tourette’s Syndrome has no control over their language. We apologize if you are offended tonight."
‘Thirtysomething’ Star Mel Harris, 69, Looks Better Than Ever With Gray Hair While Cooking on Her Farm
Mel Harris may be best known for her role on Thirtysomething, but she's our favorite cooking influencer out there these days.
Harris, 69, rose to fame in the role of Hope Steadman alongside actors Ken Olin, Polly Draper, Peter Horton, Patricia Wettig, Melanie Mayron, and Timothy Busfield in the ensemble series Thirtysomething, which ran from 1987 to 1991 on ABC. She went on to appear in a variety of made-for-TV movies and starred on the sitcomSomething So Right for two years. More recently, she appeared on the Hulu series Shut Eye and the Bravo series Imposters. But we’re partial to her presence on social media, where Harris, who is a natural stunner with gray hair, shares fun content that includes baking pies, raising chickens, and making wreaths on her upstate New York farm.
In her latest video, the star shares her favorite kitchen must-haves. At a time when there's so much darkness online, the classic beauty's gift for homemaking is just the heartwarming thing we need.
View this post on Instagram She's Still Close with Thirtysomething Star Patricia WettigWhile it's been 35 years since the series went off the air, Harris is still friends with her Thirtysomething costar Patricia Wettig, who played Nancy on the series. Harris recently took to Instagram to wish Wettig a happy birthday. It’s a touching post that features a fun throwback to one of their scenes together on the legendary show.
View this post on Instagram Harris is Open About Her Love Life ChallengesHarris is happily married to screenwriter and television producer Bob Brush, but it took her a few times to find lasting love.
“I’ve been married six times,” Harris shared back in 2017 in a clip from Oprah: Where Are They Now?PEOPLE reported. “It is what I am. Sometimes things work out, sometimes they don’t. Out of those, I have two beautiful, wonderful children.”
While she had a few bumps in the road, the actress has tremendous gratitude for what she’s been through.
“Clearly, I believe in marriage because I’ve kept trying it,” she says. “I’m married to a wonderful guy. I plan to be married to him forever and ever. I have a great life. I have lovely children. It has absolutely been the best — I’m going to cry — and the most rewarding thing I’ve done in my life. And the best blessing that anyone has ever given to me.”
U.S. Men’s Hockey Player Says Team ‘Should Have Reacted Differently’ to Trump Phone Call
Jeremy Swayman, a goaltender for the Olympic gold-medal winning U.S. Men’s Hockey team, says he and his teammates "should've reacted differently" to controversial comments made by President Donald Trump following their win.
In the locker room after the gold-medal winning game, the president jokingly told the team on a phone call that he would be “impeached” if he didn’t also invite the women’s team—who also won Olympic gold—to White House festivities.
“We’ll just have some fun, we have medals for you guys. And we have to—I must tell you—we’re going to have to bring the women’s team, you do know that,” the president said as he and the team laughed. “I do believe I probably would be impeached [if I didn’t].”
The president also offered to coordinate military aircraft to fly the men’s team to Washington, D.C. for the State of the Union—which the team ended up attending.
The women’s hockey team declined President Trump‘s invitation to attend the State of the Union, citing prior commitments.
RELATED: Flavor Flav Makes Bold Offer to All U.S. Female Olympic Medalists
On Wednesday, Feb. 25, Swayman was asked by a reporter about the criticism the men's team is facing for their reactions to Trump's comments, noting fans on social media found their reactions "disrespectful" to the women's team.
"We should have reacted differently," Swayman said. "We know that we are so excited for the women's team, we have so much respect for the women's team. To share that gold medal with them is something that we're forever grateful for."
Swayman also noted that visiting the White House and attending the State of the Union on Tuesday was "an incredible honor."
"We all were there to represent our country, celebrate a gold medal for the United States," he added. "That was something that we really embodied and were really grateful to be a part of."
RELATED: U.S. Women’s Hockey Players Seemingly React to Trump’s Phone Call With Men’s Team
’70s Rock Icons Reuniting With Original Lead Singer for 50th Anniversary Cruise
One of classic rock’s most enduring hitmakers is bringing back a familiar voice for a milestone celebration.
Foreigner will reunite with original lead singer Lou Gramm for a special appearance during Rock Legends Cruise XIV, marking the 50th anniversary of the release of the band’s self-titled debut album.
The five-day cruise sails February 21–25, 2027, departing from Port Miami aboard Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas. The floating festival will feature two full days at sea packed with live performances, exclusive events and artist interactions before a midweek stop in Costa Maya.
RELATED: Foreigner Reuniting With Lou Gramm For Special 'Foreigner 4 Deluxe' Concert
The 50th anniversary event will include Gramm performing select songs he originally recorded with the band five decades ago, revisiting material that helped define Foreigner’s most commercially dominant era.
Foreigner’s debut album, released in 1977, introduced classics including “Feels Like the First Time,” “Cold as Ice” and “Long, Long Way From Home.” The band would go on to deliver a string of arena staples such as “Urgent,” “Juke Box Hero,” “Hot Blooded,” “Waiting for a Girl Like You,” and the global No. 1 hit “I Want to Know What Love Is.”
Over five decades, Foreigner has earned 10 multi-platinum albums, 16 Top 30 singles and worldwide sales exceeding 80 million records. The band continues to generate massive streaming numbers, with audio and video streams approaching 20 million per week.
RELATED: Six Classic Rock Legends Collide on a Massive 2026 Tour
The cruise appearance continues a broader anniversary celebration that stretches through 2026 and 2027, including touring formats and special projects tied to the band’s landmark 50-year milestone.
While the current lineup features Luis Maldonado on lead vocals alongside longtime members Jeff Pilson, Michael Bluestein, Bruce Watson, Chris Frazier and John Roth, Gramm’s return places the band’s founding voice back on stage for a limited event that longtime fans have been eager to see.
A full lineup for Rock Legends Cruise XIV will be announced at a later date on the Rock Legends Cruise site.
For now, the reunion promises to be one of the most anticipated highlights of the 2027 sailing—and another chapter in Foreigner’s ongoing 50th anniversary story.
RELATED: Foreigner Reuniting With Original Lead Singer For ‘Very Special’ New Project
‘60s Child Star Kathy Garver Pays Tearful Tribute to Late Lifelong Friend Lauren Chapin
Kathy Garver is mourning the loss of her longtime friend, Father Knows Best star Lauren Chapin. The golden age child star died on Feb. 24 after a battle with cancer. Chapin played Kathy "Kitten” Anderson on the classic TV sitcom, which aired on NBC and CBS from 1954 to 1960.
Garver, who played Cissy Davis on the CBS series Family Affair from 1966 to 1971, shared a series of photos of Chapin in a Feb 25 Facebook post. She wrote, “My lifelong friend Lauren Chapin known to millions as Kathy 'Kitten' Anderson on the beloved classic TV show Father Knows Best has passed away. I first met Lauren on the set of Father Knows Best and we became instant friends.”
Garver, 80, noted that she and co-writer Fred Ascher wrote about the “ups and downs” and “challenges” that Chapin faced following her fame as a child star in the book, X Child Stars: Where Are They Now?
“Lauren showed courage and care as she found solace in faith and inspired others with her heartfelt story,” Garver continued. “RIP dear Lauren and please keep my husband David company up in Heaven.”
'Father Knows Best' cast. (Photo by Bettmann on Getty Images)Photo by Bettmann on Getty Images
Garver appeared in the 1957 Father Knows Best episode titled “Kathy’s Big Chance,” which means she was about 10 years old when she met her future lifelong friend.
Garver has experienced a lot of loss over the past year. In addition to the death of her close friend Chapin, Garver’s husband of more than 30 years, David Travis, died in August. Garver also lost her sister, Beverly Adams, in October.
RELATED: ‘Bewitched’ Star Erin Murphy Mourns Lauren Chapin
In her book, Garver shared stories about Chapin, who struggled with substance abuse following her rise to stardom in Hollywood, as well as Anissa Jones, Garver’s Family Affair co-star, who died in 1976 at age 18 from a drug overdose.
Of Chapin’s heartbreaking story, Garver wrote that her friend became discouraged when she grew out of her cute, Father Knows Best image. Chapin married at age 16 and began to abuse diet pills, eventually turning to harder drugs, Garver noted in the book. She also shared that Chapin’s own mother sued her when the former child star became eligible for $90,000 in trust fund money. Chapin’s dark path, which included drug addiction, prostitution, and time in jail, ended when she became a born-again Christian and turned her life around.
Chapin once told Revue that it was “very rare” that child actors go on to become adult actors. “They need to be prepared to have another career,” she added. “I just do not think children should be actors.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, help is available 24 hours a day through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Hotline at 1-800-662-4357.
Psychologists Say These 9 'Deposits' in an 'Emotional Bank Account' Can Improve Your Relationships
Having a bank account for your finances is one of the most fundamental things you can do as an adult. But psychologists say there's another type of overlooked bank account that can help change every type of relationship in your life for the better. Much like a regular bank account, an "emotional bank account" thrives on "deposits" and becomes depleted when there are "withdrawals." Psychologists agree that deposits in an emotional bank account can improve any relationship tenfold—from friendships to romantic partnerships to one with a child.
Dr. Francheska Perepletchikova, PhD, says that these smaller, positive daily habits—
"deposits"—can transform our emotional well-being, leading to better communication and feelings of safety in a relationship.
"We put so much emphasis on special occasions that we often fail to recognize that our routine day-to-day decisions ultimately make or break a relationship," she explains. "Even if you craft a perfect Valentine's dinner, your partner won't suddenly forget seemingly 'insignificant' moments of neglect."
It takes more than a grand gesture or two to create significant deposits in an emotional bank account. It requires small tweaks to your daily habits, but Dr. Perepletchikova says that it's 100% worth it in the end.
"Healthy relationships, whether romantic, platonic, familial, parental, academic or professional, take time to build and are based on mutual trust and reciprocity," she continues. "One large, poor judgment is more easily remedied when the relationship is otherwise built upon honest communication and understanding."
If you want to know more about utilizing the concept of an "emotional bank account" in your life, keep reading. Two psychologists share what this is all about, how to apply it to your life and the nine deposits that make the biggest difference.
Related: If Someone Often Uses These 7 Phrases, They May Be Avoiding Vulnerability
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Dr. Perepletchikova says this idea was first coined and extensively studied by psychologist Dr. John Gottman to describe couples, but it was later popularized by Stephen Covey in his book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.
"The emotional bank account conceptualizes all relationships as a series of positive and negative acts that accumulate as emotional finances/investments," she explains. "Adverse situations, such as arguments, punishments, broken promises and emotional disinterest are considered 'withdrawals,' while positive interactions like validation, being rewarded, running errands and meaningfully spending time together are considered 'deposits.'"
Just like a real financial bank account, she says that depositing more than you withdraw results in a positive relationship, while withdrawing more than you deposit can cause stress and other issues.
"When a relationship is in the negatives, future deposits are more likely to be underestimated or viewed as having ulterior motives," she adds. "When a relationship is in the positive, future withdrawals are more likely to be viewed with understanding and willingness for compromise."
Basically, you'll want to keep things in the "green" as much as you can.
Although this concept is a popular metaphor used for romantic relationships, it can apply to all basic social dynamics—from friends to family members—and helps you create more stable, healthy relationships overall.
Related: 9 After-Work Habits That Are Secretly Harming Your Relationship, According to Psychologists
As Dr. Perepletchikova mentioned, while this concept can be extremely helpful in a romantic relationship, it still applies to friendships and relationships you have with your family. Licensed psychologist Dr. Crystal Saidi echoes this sentiment.
"Any relationship that involves trust, mutual respect, shared history, vulnerability and emotional investment can have an emotional balance sheet," she says.
Both psychologists break down how to use this concept in any relationship below.
Dr. Perepletchikova stresses that a healthy relationship dynamic exists when both partners feel seen and appreciated, even through hardships.
"When an emotional bank account is in the positive, what would have typically been an unproductive match of egos becomes a collaborative discussion about avoidable pitfalls and personal shortcomings because both parties feel an inherent level of understanding and trust in one another," she states. "Making deposits into your partner's emotional bank account does not mean showering them with random material gifts or planning the infrequent elaborate outing. Deposits should happen daily and may be as simple as checking in by text throughout the day, offering to take on additional chores or being in each other's company even when engaging in parallel activities."
To determine what deposits are meaningful to your partner, consider their preferences. She says that what you consider a deposit for yourself might not be one for them.
"If your partner has continuously voiced discomfort at being physically touched without warning, a surprise hug becomes a withdrawal rather than a deposit, even if it's something you personally would want," she explains. "When material gifts are involved, they should reflect your partner’s interests (within economic reason and means)."
Related: If Your Partner Suddenly Stops Caring About These 6 Things, Your Relationship Might Be in Trouble
Even if you're a parent looking to utilize this concept with your children or just within your friendships, the same rules apply. Dr. Saidi says that within family relationships, deposits help build secure attachment, kids feel more seen and discipline lands without shame.
"It can also allow for healthy differences, such as being able disagree without rupture," she shares. "Friendship deposits help create emotional stability, safety to share feelings honestly and longevity despite life transitions. Low balance friendships often show up as one-sided effort, resentment and emotional distance masked as 'being busy.'"
The idea of an emotional bank account can be just as useful at work or in school, too. Dr. Perepletchikova breaks it down.
"As with parental relationships, there is an inherent asymmetry of power between manager and worker or teacher and student," she says. "Good managers and teachers are those [who] foster an environment of skill development, where mistakes are used as learning experiences instead of a shaming circle, and applaud both effort and successes rather than acting as if they do not deserve respect since they are the expectation. When the authority in the room cares for the well-being of their subordinates, those subordinates have a reason to deposit back."
Dr. Perepletchikova says that showing empathy is one of the most important deposits in an emotional bank account that you can make, especially when it comes to family and platonic relationships.
"Showing empathy isn't immediately moving to fix someone else's problems or give unsolicited advice, but listening to what they have to say without speaking over them and validating their discomfort," she shares.
She also states that empathy is a surefire deposit because it requires you to not only pay attention to an individual's subtler cues, but be mature enough to proactively engage with a sensitive topic.
"Displays of empathy cement you as an individual who won't belittle another's suffering for the sake of temporary superiority and improve your odds at receiving empathy back once you're the one in a vulnerable position," she notes.
Related: 35 Simple, Sincere Phrases To Express Empathy, According to Therapists
Utilizing repair strategies—like open communication without yelling—bodes well for every relationship in your life. Dr. Saidi says that your ability to bounce back from conflict in a healthy way paves the way for a positive balance in your emotional bank account.
"Being able to repair restores safety and shows accountability," she shares. "It increases resilience, builds conflict tolerance and prevents emotional scar tissue."
This goes hand-in-hand with being empathetic. Dr. Perepletchikova shares that in order to be effectively empathetic, you first have to understand the person you're trying to form or maintain a relationship with. This means listening closely and fully giving them the floor without interjecting.
"Being an active listener means maintaining your focus on them (no looking at your phone or letting your gaze wander to background gossip) and chiming in with adjacent commentary or questions that don't shift the conversation to ultimately being about you," she says. "Adding your own experiences and tying them back to what the other person said signals mutual understanding and can strengthen the bond through shared ordeals."
While gratitude is an important part of any relationship, if you don't actively show your appreciation in a romantic relationship, Dr. Saidi says this can create distance.
"Unspoken gratitude does not deposit," she states. "It's important to show appreciation as it reinforces value and belonging. Benefits of this include boosting relationship satisfaction, reducing resentment and increasing motivation to show up for one another."
While Dr. Perepletchikova says that it can be your first instinct to shield yourself from criticism and conflict, addressing your own insecurities and learning how to cope with them can go a long way towards maintaining healthy relationships.
"While receiving criticism may be a withdrawal from your account, you do not have to make the situation worse by withdrawing from theirs too," she stresses. "If the relationship is worth having, accept the criticism without defensiveness. Prove you can handle disagreement rather than being someone incapable of dealing with self-reflection. If the other party is also at fault, focus specifically on their problem behavior in that situation rather than globally demonizing their existence."
On the flip side, she also says that the simple act of admitting to flaws is already a deposit in itself, and proving you are willing to actionably change is an even bigger one.
Dr. Saidi explains that while grand gestures are nice in a romantic relationship, it's those smaller daily acts and moments that create the real deposits in an emotional bank account.
"Micro everyday moments (such as handholding or a 'thinking of you' text) are what truly build intimacy," she shares. "This can help maintain emotional closeness, prevent drift and build more connection."
Keeping promises is a great deposit in any kind of relationship—whether that's with a parent, child, partner or friend.
"Although promises come in a spectrum of importance, they are all clear signals to one’s character," Dr. Perepletchikova says. "Every kept promise is a significant deposit to an emotional bank account."
Communication is key when it comes to this deposit. She also adds that if you later realize an existing promise is unreasonable or needs adjustment to reflect your available time, communicate this directly to your partner, friend, child or parent as soon as possible.
"You bring these problems up as they come, not when the other person is finally too fed up with your negligence to stay silent," she says. "[At that point], the emotional bank account has entered bankruptcy."
Engaging with the things your partner or friend loves is one of the biggest deposits you can make in an emotional bank account.
"A surefire deposit in anyone's emotional bank account is engaging with what they love rather than forcing them to enjoy something you do," Dr. Perepletchikova explains. "Even if you could not care less about the art of crocheting, the proclaimed groundbreaking subtleties of a competitive card game or can't catch a frisbee to save your life, going out of your way to engage with anyone's interest shows you care and want to be with them on their terms."
There are always modifications you can do, too, if you can't fully engage with them at that moment.
"If direct participation is out of the question, simply asking for more information about their passion and using those active listener skills proves you're dedicated to seeing them happy for happiness's sake," she suggests.
Dr. Saidi also stresses that respecting another person's boundaries counts as a big deposit in an emotional bank account.
"It communicates that the other person's autonomy matters," she stresses. "It helps build psychological safety, encourages openness and prevents resentments."
Up Next:
Related: 7 Signs You Need To Set Boundaries With Your Adult Child, According to a Psychologist
Sources:- Dr. Francheska Perepletchikova, PhD, is a licensed psychologist and founder of Child DBT.
- Dr. Crystal Saidi is a licensed psychologist at Thriveworks.
Is Zach Braff Single? Inside The 'Scrubs' Star's Dating History, Including Florence Pugh Romance
From Natalie Portman to Jason Momoa to Kate Hudson, Zach Braff has shared the screen with some of the biggest names in Hollywood—and dated some of them, too. Yes, in between a busy schedule of starring in the beloved hospital sitcomScrubs (Braff will reprise his role as John "J.D." Dorian in the upcoming tenth season of the ABC comedy beginning Wednesday, February 25) and directing flicks like Garden State and Wish I Was Here, the 50-year-old actor found time over the years to nab some of the most eligible actresses in the industry.
The New Jersey native, who joined his Scrubs co-star and IRL bestie Donald Faison in PEOPLE's Sexiest Man Alive issue last year, revealed to that outlet what he looks for in a potential partner. “I mean obviously there’s the initial ‘Am I attracted to this person?’" the TV star shared. "But then I’m so aware that for me now it’s being funny and laughing with the person. To me that’s the sexiest thing. Beyond the initial ‘Oh you’re cute,' is ‘Do we laugh?’ "
And his famous exes certainly have that indelible mix of beauty, humor and charisma. With Zach Braff back on our screens each week as Scrubs' J.D.—no doubt flirting with his onscreen love interest Elliot Reid (Sarah Chalke) all the while—here's what we know about the star's current relationship status as well as his romantic history.
Is Zach Braff single?As of February 2026, Zach Braff is, at least publicly, single. Ever since his very public romance with Oscar-nominated actress Florence Pugh (more on her in a minute!) ended in early 2022, Braff has been pretty private about his romantic life.
However, in last year's Sexiest Man Alive issue, longtime pal Donald Faison teased Braff's current relationship status, joking about his famous friend: “This is a single man who is very, very handsome... Someone out there is going to see this [issue] and be like, ‘What a handsome young man this is!’"
The last lovely lady with whom Braff was seen publicly canoodling was 26-year-old alt-pop singer-songwriter Frances Whitney, who was snapped sharing an intimate dinner date with the actor in Los Angeles in October 2024, per The Daily Mail.
Zach Braff dated singer-actress Mandy Moore from 2004 to 2006. Who has Zach Braff dated?Braff has had several high-profile romances with fellow performers over the years, including actress-singer Mandy Moore (whom he dated from 2004 to 2006), Unreal star Shiri Appleby (the pair were spotted spending time together in '07 and '08, though Appleby later revealed on Access Hollywood that they split because Braff didn't want to settle down), model Taylor Bagley (they were in a relationship from 2009 to 2014) and movie star Florence Pugh (with whom he was memorably paired up from 2019 to 2022).
There were also rumors that he casually courted the likes ofDrew Barrymore and his The Last Kiss co-star Rachel Bilson over the years, though neither romance was ever confirmed.
Related: Inside Sterling K. Brown’s Marriage — And All the Times He’s Teamed up With His Wife Onscreen
View this post on Instagram Why did Zach Braff and Florence Pugh break up?Zach Braff and Thunderbolts star Florence Pugh were a couple from 2019 until their split in 2022; the break-up was reportedly the result of public scrutiny and online backlash directed at the pair's 21-year age difference.
“We’ve been trying to do this separation without the world knowing, because it’s been a relationship that everybody has an opinion on,” Pugh told Harper’s BAZAAR in a September 2022 cover story. “We just felt something like this would really do us the benefit of not having millions of people telling us how happy they are that we’re not together. So we’ve done that. I automatically get a lumpy throat when I talk about it.”
The British actress had previously confronted critics of her May-December romance with Braff, releasing a pointed Instagram video in April 2020: “I am 24 years old. I do not need you to tell me who I should and should not love," Pugh said. "And I would never in my life ever, ever tell anyone who they can and cannot love. It is not your place. And really, it has nothing to do with you. So if those rules are something that you do not like, then please unfollow me because the abuse that you throw at him is abuse that you’re throwing at me.”
The former lovers have remained cordial since their split—Pugh starred in the 2023 film A Good Person, which Braff wrote and directed. "It's pretty clear across the world that I'm not biased when I say that she is one of the finest actresses working today," Braff raved of his famous ex, during a December 2023 appearance on SiriusXM's The Jess Cagle Show. "She's just extraordinary and I just feel so lucky that I got to have her be my leading lady."
Did Zach Braff and Natalie Portman date?No, despite the onscreen chemistry they share in the 2004 indie rom-dram Garden State, Zach Braff and Natalie Portman did not share a romantic connection in real life. The famous co-stars reunited in March 2025 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the cult-favorite flick at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, per ABC News.
Related: Kaley Cuoco Confesses to ‘Lowest Point of Her Life’ Just Before Meeting Her Fiancé
Zach Braff and Sarah Chalke play love interests in the ABC sitcom 'Scrubs' but haven't dated each other in real life. Did Zach Braff and Sarah Chalke date?No, Zach Braff and Sarah Chalke have never dated, though they have played love interests J.D. and Elliot on the long-running medical comedy Scrubs for 15-plus years. (The series originally ran from 2001 to 2010 and is now getting a reboot on ABC, with the original cast reprising their famous roles.)
Along with fellow Sacred Heart regular Donald Faison, Braff and Chalke have maintained a close friendship over the decades. The actor discussed reuniting onscreen with his real-life buddies for the revival, telling New Jersey Monthly: “It’s so fun. We’re all very close. So many times you make something, you spend so much time just getting to know each other and figure out rhythms and figure out how someone works comedically as a director, figuring out how they like to be directed, how to get the best performance out of people. We start day one knowing all that.”
Next, Kate Hudson Draws the Line on Love: ‘If a Guy Says They Don’t Want It … I’m Out’
Harrison Ford’s Co-Star Admits She Loves to Irritate Him — Here’s Why
Actress and comedian Jessica Williams is opening up about her bond with her Shrinking castmate, Harrison Ford.
In a February 2026 interview with People magazine, Williams, who portrays therapist Dr. Gaby Evans on the Apple TV comedy, said she enjoys annoying Ford. She explained Ford, now 83, is quite entertaining when he's irritated.
"I live to irritate that man, both privately and on the show. There's nothing funnier than seeing Harrison Ford be annoyed. That's kind of the essence of Harrison and why it works. He plays these kinds of cowboy archetypes that are just hemming and hawing, but secretly want to be there and having a great time," said Williams, who has starred in Shrinking since its first season, which premiered in 2023.
She also said she believes annoying Ford on the Shrinking set helps him portray his character, Dr. Paul Rhoades.
"if it's in the script, that's what I'm gonna do and then I'm gonna just irritate Harrison just a little more so that it gives him something to push off of too. Part of being a good supporting actor is always trying to give that polarity for the other actor," said Williams while speaking to People.
She clarified that Ford "does bits" and is "very silly."
"That's what's fun about him, he'll try stuff," said The Daily Showstar.
Jessica Williams Shared Her Thoughts About Harrison Ford Comparing Her to YodaWhile speaking to the Los Angeles Times for a profile about Williams in 2024, Ford praised her for her comedic abilities. The actor, who famously played Han Solo in the Star Wars film franchise, also compared her to Jedi master, Yoda.
"She gets where the jokes are and she doesn’t require a lot of talk about it. With her, I think of Yoda: ‘There is no talk, only do.’ She’s stretched my imagination," said Ford to the publication.
During a February 2025 interview on the Not Skinny But Not Fatpodcast, Williams said she wasn't surprised by Ford's kind words. She said, however, that she was shocked he mentioned Yoda because he famously doesn't like talking about Star Wars.
"He never wants to talk about Star Wars. Why did he bring up Yoda like in the Sunday LA Times paper. Like he didn't have to do that. So weird," said Williams in the podcast interview.
Shrinking is currently in its third season.
Amanda Seyfried Reveals the Unexpected Prosthetic She Wore For Intimate Scenes in 'The Testament of Ann Lee'
Amanda Seyfriedhad to strip down for her new movie The Testament of Ann Lee—but there's a few things she did to be comfortable for the more intimate scenes.
During an appearance on the BBC's The Scott Mills Breakfast Show on Wednesday (Feb. 25), Seyfried opened up about those NSFW scenes and revealed that she was actually wearing a "prosthetic butthole" while filming.
"This movie, it needed to be graphic, so, like, I had a prosthetic butthole," she shared in a clip from the interview shared on BBC Radio 2's Instagram, jokingly adding that it was "cool" and "exciting."
"I was pregnant and naked but I wasn't naked at all," Seyfried said, alluding to the prosthetic that kept her covered up.
She went on to reference her nude scene in the film's final moments, sharing, "At the end of the movie, I'm standing in front of a burning building with just a merkin. I felt so free."
Seyfried noted that you can't actually see the prosthetic, explaining, "You cannot see my butthole in [the scene], but I swear there is a prosthetic butthole there." As for why she wore it anyway, Seyfried replied, "Just in case!"
View this post on InstagramSeyfried previously opened up about not holding back in any aspect of the film, prosthetics or not.
"This did feel like an opportunity where there were just no tethers to anything," Seyfried shared during a 2025 press conference, per People. "Anything goes, because there's so much freedom, and the only threat is to not use that freedom to your advantage as an artist to go as far deep as you can go to make the craziest sounds. I've never been let loose in this way."
The Testament of Ann Lee centers on Ann Lee, the real-life founder of the Christian religious sect known as the Shakers in 18th century England. The historical drama was inspired by the movement's founding, which preached gender and social equality, and its move to New York in colonial-era United States history.
The movie received a standing ovation at the Venice International Film Festival that lasted more than 15 minutes.
Britt Ekland, 83, Stuns in Epic Throwback Photo From Her Days as a Bond Girl With Roger Moore
Britt Ekland rose to stardom as a Bond girl alongside legendary actor Roger Moore in The Man with the Golden Gun, and the Swedish beauty just shared an epic throwback photo from their time together.
Eklund 83, who rose to fame in several films during the ’60s and earned acclaim for her role opposite Moore in the 1974 James Bond film, had several other highly successful projects throughout the years, like The Wicker Man and Get Carter. She was also known for several high-profile romances, like her marriage to iconic star Peter Sellers, and later relationships with Rod Stewart, Lou Adler, and Stray Cats drummer Slim Jim Phantom. But fans love to remember Ekland in the role of Mary Goodnight, Bond's second personal secretary, in the beloved '70s flick.
In a photo posted to Ekland's Instagram account, the actress stunned in a multi-colored bikini alongside Moore and actress Maud Adams, who played Andrea Anders, the girlfriend of assassin Francisco Scaramanga in the movie.
View this post on InstagramCheck out the trailer for The Man with the Golden Gun below:
Ekland Has Thoughts About the Next Bond GirlAs a legendary Bond Girl, it’s only right that Ekland has plenty of thoughts about the women who carry on that legacy. Ekland told the UK’s Times that the right woman “should be attractive … chosen for her natural beauty. And she should be athletic.”
“I think that’s very important because the role generally involves running, jumping, and a little bit of fighting. It involves moving your body,” Ekland continued.
View this post on InstagramThe actress has strong feelings about the issues because she’s just so proud of the legacy. It’s also a tremendous responsibility to carry.
“I’m the proudest Bond girl there is because there are not a lot of us left, and there won’t be any in the future,” Ekland told The Guardian back in 2020. In the past, she pointed out in a piece in The Independent that modern Bond girls have it harder than she did since there are “so many demands” on them.
“The Bond girl has to look good in a bikini: that was her role … The Bond girl of my era exists no more because they’re not presented that way. You wouldn’t see her in a bikini next to Daniel Craig in a suit today,” Ekland said. “The PR department would make sure that didn’t happen.”
Who Is Dominic Evans? What We Know About Tommaso Cioni's Former Bandmate
Dominic Evans is speaking out after some internet users have been convinced that he had something to do with the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie. You may recognize Evans, 48, as one of the people who used to be in a band with Guthrie's son-in-law, Tommaso Cioni.
Early on in the case, Cioni's name was brought into the fold as a "prime suspect" by former NewsNation journalist Ashleigh Banfield. In the time since, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said that the Guthrie siblings and their spouses had been cleared in the case. Nevertheless, some internet users still think that Cioni and Evans might have worked together to kidnap Guthrie for unknown reasons.
According to The New York Times, Evans spoke with investigators about a week into the case for about 40 minutes and hasn't heard from them since. He said that he was asked about the band, his relationship with Cioni, and where he was on January 31 into February 1—the night Guthrie went missing.
"I feel like someone’s taken my name. I don’t know [why]—monetary, clickbait, to be relevant, entertainment—but there are innocent people that get hurt," he told The Times in an interview published on Feb. 25.
Meanwhile, Sheriff Nanos told the publication that he wasn't ready to clear anyone outside of the Guthrie family but admitted he felt terrible for Evans.
"He’s going through hell, and it is horrible. And I don’t know what to tell him except he probably should be speaking with some attorneys and sue some of these people for libel," Nanos said.
Here's what we know about Dominic Evans:
He Played in a Band With Tommaso CioniEvans played drums in a band called Early Black, which was founded in April 2007, according to ReverbNation.
Tommaso Cioni, who is married to Guthrie's daughter, Annie Guthrie, played bass in the same band. A third band member, Walter I. Gonçalves, Jr., was on guitar and vocals.
“The songs were grungier compared to the band’s repertory in its debut, Life:Love :: Love: Murder. Also, as would follow for the rest of its trajectory, the band began playing shows locally in Tucson and at times in Phoenix and Flagstaff,” reads the Early Black bio on ReverbNation’s website. “In late 2009, early 2010, the band recorded its debut album at Loveland Studios, with Tucson music engineer Nathan Sabatino. … The band continues to write and gig locally, with a goal of recording more albums and developing its creative ambitions."
It was this connection that led some people to believe that Evans may have been involved in whatever happened to Nancy. However, Evans told The Times that he'd only met Cioni's mother-in-law once, back in 2011, when he brought one of his kids over to her house for an Easter egg hunt.
He's a School TeacherEvans works as an elementary school teacher in Arizona.
As the rumors about Evans' possible involvement got more serious, he asked the principal at his school to hold a staff meeting. He told The Times that he addressed his colleagues and told them that he needed to take a few days off.
Evans has since returned to teaching fifth grade as the speculation has died down considerably. He said he's had the support of his colleagues, which has been a tremendous relief.
He's Married to Andrea Jacobo EvansAccording to legal records obtained by Parade, Evans and Andrea Jacobo filed for a marriage license in 2012. The pair tied the knot on January 12, 2013.
The couple is still married and livesthe together in Marana, Arizona. Andrea works as a principal of a nearby school.
Some time after authorities released photos and videos of a person on Nancy's front stoop that were captured by a Google Nest camera, the media showed up in the Evans' neighborhood and even started talking to their neighbors.
"It was all night looking through the window, trying to not let any light out of our home," Andrea told The Times.
READ NEXT: Savannah Guthrie’s Mom: Pima County Sheriff Makes an Interesting Move on Day 25
Heartbreaking Episode of Beloved 1980s Sitcom Still Haunts 'Friends' Fans to This Day
Long before the actor's heartbreaking and untimely death in 2023, Matthew Perry broke hearts around the world in his early role as Carol Seaver's romantic interest Sandy on Growing Pains. It was an episode most of us 80s kids and teens will never forget.
It's hard to remember a time before we knew and loved Matthew Perry's character Chandler Bing on the hit TV show Friends, which premiered in 1994. That role shoved actor Perry, just 25 years young then, and his cast mates into forever stardom. But Perry made a lasting impact about five years earlier in a guest role on the show Growing Pains. It was a primetime storyline that left viewers, especially teens and our parents, devastated when Perry's character Sandy dies after a drunk driving accident (he was driving).
Growing Pains character Carol (Tracey Gold), a high school student, had started a little romance with Sandy, a college student, a few episodes prior. As viewers, we thought their age gap was going the big story. Soon, Jason and Maggie would be lecturing us perfectly about the problems with dating older guys. But that's not the way this story went.
In an episode title "Second Chance," which aired in April 1989, we watched a worried Carol visit Sandy in the hospital after she finds out he's been in a car accident. The two had been out drinking (and driving) together the night before. They banter back and forth. It's jokey and light. Sandy makes cringey sitcom wisecracks and even says that he guesses his luck's run out now that he's crashed his car and is being charged with a DUI. But Carol, in true Seaver style, corrects him, pointing out that he's lucky, indeed, because he's alive and actually got a second chance.
Sandy makes more bad jokes, but we love him anyway.
Again, the naive among us thought this was the worst of it. Soon, Jason and Maggie, would enter and tell us the moral of the story. "This is why you don't drink and drive," they'd say and we'd learn. We'd all learn. Sandy would get his DUI, and he and Carol would never do that again ...
But no, Growing Pains took us deeper. Carol and her parents returned home after visiting Sandy, her brother Mike (Kirk Cameron) delivers the news that Sandy suddenly died from internal bleeding.
Related: Matthew Perry's Jaw-Dropping Net Worth Will Leave a Lasting Legacy
Carol's emotional reckoning had me floored. She screamed, "He wouldn't dare die!" and then, "This isn't fair. What happened to his second chance?"
You better believe, in true '80s style, landlines were tied up by teens all over the nation, talking about Sandy. We would never get over it.
There was so much that was sad about this episode at the time of its airing. From the ongoing efforts from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) to the well-known "Friends Don't Let Friends Drive Drunk" campaign, '80s teens came of age during a very public reckoning with the deadly horrors of drunk driving. But watching the snippet of this episode now—in the aftermath of Chandler Bing, in the aftermath of Perry's open struggle with addiction, in the aftermath of what we thought was Perry's real-life second chance when he finally got sober, and in the aftermath of his eventual death at just 54 years old from the effects of ketamine—it's so much harder to watch.
‘DWTS’ Pro Books First Leading Acting Role in New Series
Former Dancing With the Stars pro Maksim Chmerkovskiy is stepping into an entirely new spotlight.
The longtime ballroom champion and reality TV standout is set to star in Wild Silence, marking his first leading scripted role. The series premieres February 27 on the My Drama platform and represents a significant career pivot for the 46-year-old performer.
Chmerkovskiy, who competed on DWTS for 17 seasons and won season 18 with Olympic ice dancer Meryl Davis, has spent decades as one of ballroom’s most recognizable faces. Now, he’s trading the dance floor for dramatic storytelling.
RELATED: Dennis Quaid Reveals If He’d Compete on ‘DWTS’ After Supporting Elaine Hendrix (Exclusive)
In Wild Silence, Chmerkovskiy plays Jack, a grieving widower who rescues a woman after a suicide attempt in a remote wilderness setting. The two form a fragile emotional bond as they confront their respective pasts. The series is designed specifically for vertical, mobile-first viewing—one of the fastest-growing sectors in entertainment.
“Wild Silence was an opportunity to step into a completely different kind of storytelling that is intimate, emotionally raw, and built for the way the majority of audiences are watching shows today,” Chmerkovskiy said in a statement. “This role challenged me in new ways as an actor, and I was drawn to the honesty of the story and the creative ambition behind My Drama. Vertical series are an exciting new frontier, and I’m proud to be part of a project that’s helping redefine what premium, mobile-first entertainment can be.”
The project is produced by Holywater Tech’s My Drama platform, which has recently drawn major industry attention. In 2025, FOX Entertainment acquired an equity stake in Holywater and began active production on hundreds of microdramas and vertical series.
RELATED: Emma Slater’s Tribute to James Van Der Beek Will Break Your Heart
Chmerkovskiy teased the trailer on Instagram, writing, “So excited to finally share this! Can’t wait for everyone to see our movie!” He also gave a shout-out to stunt coordinator Bobby Laenen, joking on his Stories, “Bobby, you were the ONLY reason I looked decent doing any of this fighting! Appreciate your professionalism, patience and humility. Can't wait to get to fake punch you in the face sometime soon!”
Fellow DWTS prosAnna Trebunskaya, Sasha Farber, Derek Hough, Val Chmerkovskiy, Jenna Johnson, Sharna Burgess and Gleb Savchenko filled the comments with support and celebratory emojis.
Chmerkovskiy left Dancing With the Stars in 2017 after nearly two decades in competitive ballroom and reality television. Outside of his professional career, he married fellow pro Peta Murgatroyd in 2017. The couple shares three sons: Shai, 9, Rio, 2, and Milan, 1.
With Wild Silence, Chmerkovskiy becomes one of the first major reality TV personalities to headline a U.S. vertical drama series—a move that takes him from the ballroom spotlight to the center of a very different kind of stage.
Amazon’s 'Stylish' Pair of Mary Jane Sandals That Will Get Your Wardrobe Ready for Spring
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
If you’re just as excited for clear skies and warm weather as we are, you’re probably also already planning your spring outfits. Sunshine calls for a good pair of sandals, and it’s even better when they’re on sale. Right now, you can get these “stylish” woven flats for up to 48% off at Amazon. They’re the perfect pick for your spring break trip or summer vacation.
The Cushionaire Weston Hand Woven Mary Janes are on sale now in seven colors. The white, beige, and light brown colors are perfect for spring and summer. If you’re looking for a darker color, you can choose between dark brown, burgundy, black, and navy. All of the colors are chic and would match a variety of outfits. The Mary Janes come in sizes 6 to 11, with half sizes and wide-width shoes available. Amazon recommends ordering a half size down, since the flats run large. Currently, the cheapest pair is the size 9 light brown Mary Janes, which are on sale for only $42.
Cushionaire Weston Hand Woven Mary Janes, $42 (was $80) at AmazonCourtes
The open-weave design makes them breathable, with a faux leather exterior that adds style and a rubber sole that makes them extra durable. The cotton interior with memory foam cushioning makes them “lightweight” and “comfortable” to wear, according to shoppers. Though they can be worn with or without socks, keep in mind that the shoes are not water-resistant.
“It feels like walking on clouds — something you rarely find in a dressy flat,” one shopper said.” “True to size and super versatile, these flats are perfect for anyone who wants elegance without sacrificing comfort.”
Ballet flats are super trendy right now, and these sandals are a fun take on the trend. The woven shoes feature a pointed toe and braided ankle strap. The adjustable buckle should allow you to get a customized fit.
“These are so on trend and well made, almost identical to Marc Fisher woven flats for a quarter of the cost,” one shopper said. “I’ve worn Tory Burch ballet flats for over 10 years, but I’ve been reaching for these instead,” another shopper said. “They’re much more affordable and look great with wide-leg pants.”
Shop More Deals- Cushionaire Bistro Mary Jane Flats, From $50 (was $70) at Amazon
- StillFancxy Leopard Mesh Ballet Flats, From $25 (was $60) at Amazon
- Coutgo Raffia Square Open Toe Buckle Flats, From $30 (was $46) at Amazon
Stay cute and comfortable this upcoming season. Pick up the Cushionaire Weston Hand Woven Mary Janes for as low as $42 now on Amazon.
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Iconic 96-Year Old Actress Joins Cast of 'Yellowjackets' for Final Season
Though June Squibb is 96 years old, that is not stopping her from acting.
It was announced by Deadline on Wednesday afternoon that the Oscar-nominated actress has joined the cast of Yellowjackets for its fourth and final season. Details about her character are under wraps and have not been announced yet.
Squibb started her acting career when she made her Broadway debut in the musical Gypsy in 1959, and then made her film debut more than 30 years later in Woody Allen's romantic comedy, Alice. Since then, she has had a mix of supporting, starring and voice roles in various movies such as The Age of Innocence, Meet Joe Black, Far From Heaven, Thelma, Eleanor the Great, Inside Out 2, Zootopia 2 and Nebraska, where she was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 2014 for her role as Kate Grant.
June Squibb attends the Academy Museum's 5th Annual Gala in Partnership with Rolex at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on October 18, 2025, in Los Angeles, California.Starring Melanie Lynskey, Sophie Nélisse, Tawny Cypress, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Ella Purnell, Christina Ricco and Samantha Hanratty, Yellowjackets follows two primary storylines: the first involves a group of teenagers as they try to survive in the wildnerss after their plane crashes in 1996, while the second takes place 25 years later and focuses on the survivors' attempts to get their lives together.
Created by Ashley Lyle and Bart Nickerson, the Showtime thriller drama premiered on Nov 14. 2021 and currently has three seasons. The fourth and final season was renewed in May 2025, three months after the release of Season 3. The show has garnered 10 Emmy nominations, three Writers Guild of America Award nominations and a Critics' Choice Award. In addition, Yellowjackets is the second-most-streamed TV series in Showtime's history.
The cast of "Yellowjackets" Season 3 at the Global Premiere held at DGA Theater on February 13, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.Based on teasers and fan theories, the fourth season of Yellowjackets is expected to feature the immediate aftermath of the rescue that happened in Season 3, focusing on the survivors' traumatic return to society.
In addition to Squibb, it was also announced that Molly Ringwald will be joining the cast in a recurring role as Vicky, the mother of Van (Lauren Ambrose/Liv Hewson). Her character is described as a recovering alcoholic attempting to make amends for her past.
The series started production this month in Vancouver and is expected to wrap in late July. A release date has not been officially confirmed, but it's anticipated to air sometime in late 2026. All three seasons of Yellowjackets can be streamed on Paramount+, Netflix, Hulu and The Roku Channel.
Related: Beloved 'Nebraska' Actress, 95, Shares Her Shockingly Simple Secret to Managing Stress
‘Parks and Rec’ Alum Rashida Jones Looks Shockingly Ageless in 50th Birthday Selfie: ‘50 and Grateful'
There's no doubt that actress Rashida Jones is a stunner. But in a new selfie posted to her Instagram page for her 50th birthday, it's safe to say she's absolutely ageless.
Jones, the daughter of musical icon Quincy Jones and Mod Squad star Peggy Lipton, got her start with a small role on the cult-favorite series Freaks and Geeks, followed by a stint on Boston Public. But it was her role as Leslie Knope's best friend, Ann Perkins, on the NBC hit series Parks and Recreation, that solidified Jones as a comedy queen.
Over the years, Jones also starred in other comedy classics, such as I Love You, Man, and Celeste and Jesse Forever, while also delving into dramatic roles. Her turn in a 2025 episode of Netflix's Black Mirror even earned her an Emmy nomination, proving the talented actress can tackle almost any role.
Jones took to Instagram on Wednesday to celebrate her 50th birthday with a fun, close-up selfie, and shocked followers with her ageless glow. Whatever this beauty is doing to stay happy and healthy is certainly working!
View this post on Instagram Looking Back on her Office CharacterWhen Jones appeared on The Office back in 2006 as a love interest forJohn Krasinski's character Jim Halpert, Jones learned quickly that fans were not so crazy about her presence. During an appearance on her former costar Amy Poehler's popular podcast Good Hang, Jones opened up about realizing she wasn't exactly being rooted for in the role of Karen because everyone wanted Jim to get together with Pam.
“Everybody wanted Jim and Pam [to get together],” Poehler said. “And then guess who shows up? A very likable, cool [character], and everyone was like, ‘Oh, no. Wait. I love Karen.’”
“It did not feel that way,” Jones replied. “People did not like me.”
Jones went on to say that viewers “were not about” her character’s getting in the way of Jim and Pam’s relationship, but her presence was needed "to create tension for a relationship to be earned later.”
“So, I was the third point in the triangle. It's fine,” Jones said.
Take a look at her full episode of Good Hang below:
Related: Adam Scott Shares Rare Glimpse Into His Sweet Relationship With Daughter Frankie in New Doc
Savannah Guthrie's Mom Nancy Update: Megyn Kelly Points Out Key Detail in New Video
Savannah Guthrie's mom, Nancy Guthrie, remains missing—and Megyn Kelly just pointed out a key detail about the Today co-anchor's new video.
On the Feb. 24 episode of The Megyn Kelly Show, the former Fox News host, 55, discussed Savannah's Instagram video announcing a $1 million reward for information that leads to Nancy's recovery. The 84-year-old was last seen at her Tucson, Ariz., home on Jan. 31.
Specifically, Kelly honed in on what Savannah said at the beginning of Tuesday's message: “I’m coming on to say it is day 24 since our mom was taken in the dark of night from her bed.”
View this post on Instagram“No one has ever said that before,” Kelly pointed out of the bed detail. “In fact, the sheriff said it early on and then took it back and said he didn’t mean to say that and wasn’t confirming whether or not she was taken from her bed.”
She added, "But there it is, straight from Savannah Guthrie herself. That’s news.”
Related: Who Is Camron Guthrie? Everything We Know About Savannah Guthrie’s Brother Amid Mom’s Disappearance
James Hamilton, a former FBI special agent, weighed in on Savannah's remark.
"Is she just saying that? As if to say, you know, sometimes in kidnappings, like a JonBenét Ramsey taken from her bed type of deal. And it’s almost like something you would say,” Hamilton said. “But I’m with you. I think she was literally, that Savannah knows something that we didn’t know, and now we do know, that she was taken from her bed.”
Hamilton said that if that were the case, then it rules out the possibility of Nancy answering the door to the suspect. “If they roused her from her bed, that’s a totally different thing, and that’s significant,” he shared.
Additionally, Kelly speculated about the reason Savannah is now offering a $1 million reward for information leading to the recovery of Nancy.
“There is also the possibility, I'm just gonna say, that the reason somebody close to Savannah talked her out of offering a million dollars early on is they thought somebody might come out of the woodwork and point the finger at them,” she said.
Next: Today’s Jenna Bush Hager & Sheinelle Jones Announce Major Switch-Up
Mary Cosby Receives Outpouring of Love From 'Real Housewives' Stars After Son’s Passing
The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star Mary Cosby is mourning the death of her son, Robert Cosby Jr. The reality TV star confirmed his death in a statement on Instagram on Wednesday, Feb. 25, after TMZ first reported that he had passed away on Monday, Feb. 23. He was just 23 years old.
"Our beloved son Robert Cosby Jr. has been called home to the Lord. Though our hearts ache, we take comfort in God's promise and in knowing he is finally at peace. We are grateful for your prayers and trust in the Lord to carry us through this time of sorrow," the statement read.
Cosby's post was quickly flooded with messages of love and support, not only from fans but also from her fellow Real Housewives community, who shared their condolences and expressed deep sadness over the tragic loss.
Her Salt Lake City co-stars, including Lisa Barlow, left several heart emojis, while Heather Gay shared, "There are no words big enough. We love you Mary🤍." Whitney Rose wrote, "Sending you all my love Mary. So sorry for your loss 💔🪽." Britani Bateman shared, "I’m so saddened and sorry 😢 sending love and prayers."
Angie Katsanevas, one of Cosby's closest friends on the series, shared a longer statement, writing: "Thank you for sharing Bubbs with my family and the world. He touched many hearts and this loss has broken mine. I will forever remember his kindness towards Elektra, his handshake and eye contact, and his soft spoken voice “Love you Mom” I am here for you..May god bless your family and may his memory be eternal🙏🏼✝️❤️I love you Mary."
View this post on InstagramThe Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Kyle Richards wrote, "Mary, I am so very sorry for your unimaginable loss. I’m holding you in my thoughts and prayers. We are here for you and sending so much love ❤️"
Richards' co-star Bozoma Saint John also shared a touching comment, writing, "I can’t even articulate my heartbreak for you, sis… but I feel it deeply. I’m so very sorry that you, Robert Jr and the family are suffering through this. I pray that God blesses you with peace that passes all understanding at this time. I love you, sis ❤️"
Teresa Giudice, of The Real Housewives of New Jersey, commented, "So sorry 😢 my condolences to you and the family 🙏♥️," and The Real Housewives of Orange County star Gina Kirschenheiter shared, "My heart breaks for you Mary ❤️ prayers for your whole family ❤️"
Bravo boss Andy Cohenalso offered his condolences, commenting with, "I love you Mary. You did your very best We are all praying for your family. ❤️"
Ultimately, the outpouring of love from Real Housewives stars across multiple franchises highlighted just how deeply Cosby and her family are cherished by her Bravo family.