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‘American Idol 2026: Who Made It to the Next Round of Hollywood Week Tonight?
Auditions are over for American Idol’s Class of 2026, and 127 hopefuls made it through to Hollywood Week. But that’s just the beginning. Starting tonight, judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan have to start making cuts – and according to the judges, it’s the largest cuts they’ve ever had to make, taking the number down from 127 to 30.
But they don’t have to do it all at once. There’s an interim step in the process, which is new to Hollywood Week, as is the fact that it doesn’t take place in Hollywood this season. Rather it’s all happening in Nashville and being labeled “Hollywood Week: Music City Takeover.”
The breakdown is that the 127 artists will perform with a full band and it will be sink or swim, meaning the dream will end for the majority of the hopefuls. But the best of the best will survive. But before the Top 30 learn their fate, there is an elimination that puts the artists the judges still want in contention into the Golden Room. After everyone has sung, there will be the final cut down to 30 from those who found temporary safety in the Golden Room.
Related: American Idol Airs Lost Benson Boone Duet as Mary Jo Young Makes Emotional Return
Advancing contestants tonight on American Idol 2026*Abayomi, 16
San Francisco, CA
High School Student
“Make It Rain” by Foy Vance
Braden Rambelt, 22
Murphy, NC
Substitute Teacher
“I’m Not the Only One” by Sam Smith
Bryant Thomas, 26
Mobile, AL
Secret Shower Singer
“Champagne Problems” by Taylor Swift
Hannah Harper, 25
Willow Springs, MO
Stay-at-Home Mom
“A Little Past Little Rock” by Lee Ann Womack
Jake Thistle, 21
Paramus, NJ
Singer-Songwriter
“Seventeen Going Under” by Sam Fender
Jordan McCullough, 27
Murfreesboro, TN
Worship Director
“Higher Ground” by Stevie Wonder
Keyla Richardson, 29
Pensacola, FL
Music Teacher
“I Won’t Give Up” by Jason Mraz
Lucas Leon, 17
Gallatin, TN
High School Student
“Georgia on My Mind” by Ray Charles
Madison Moon, 21
Orlando, FL
Musician
“Alone” by Hart
Makiyah, 24
Pinebluff, AR
Assistant Branch Bank Manager
“Nobody’s Supposed to be Here” by Deborah Cox
Michael Garner, 16
Forrest City, AR
High School Student
“I Wanna Be Loved” by The Red Clay Strays
Philmon Lee, 25
LaGrange, GA
Insurance Agent
“Lose Control” by Teddy Swims
Roelle, 25
Dorado, Puerto Rico
Retail Associate
“California” by Chappel Roan
Trace Casanova, 23
Charlotte, NC
Senior Citizen Entertainer
“Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osbourne
*Please not this is not a complete list, only the ones that were televised.
American Idol airs Monday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC. Streams next day on Hulu.
Next, American Idol Returns in 2026 with Three Game-Changing Shake-Ups
‘FBI’s John Boyd and Shantel VanSanten Break Down That Surprise Wedding — and Reveal Who They’re Shipping Next (Exclusive)
Stuart Scola (John Boyd) and Nina Chase (Shantel VanSanten) are officially married!
The midseason premiere of FBI ended with a really lovely, somewhat unexpected moment for the couple, who got together after a one-night stand resulted in a pregnancy in Season 4. Ever since, they’ve been wrestling with what it means to be an FBI agent dating and sharing a child with another FBI agent. It’s still a difficult task, and nothing has changed about their jobs (other than the cancellation of Nina’s show, FBI: Most Wanted). But this week's case really put things in perspective for the couple, because there's nothing like almost dying to make you rethink your relationship.
The team was working on taking down a family of heroin dealers, with Nina cozying up to Luka, one of the low-level members. She was hoping to catch him selling drugs, but instead found him buying a giant rocket launcher. It was supposed to be a wedding present for his younger brother, who was marrying the daughter of another organization, making them one big, happy, heroin-dealing family. Nina and Maggie accompanied Luka to the wedding, only to slowly realize it was not the joyous event they all thought it was. It was a massacre, with a new heroin boss lady attempting to prove her newfound power over all the heroin.
Her men had also installed a signal jammer, making it impossible for Scola and the rest of the team to communicate with Nina and Maggie. Fortunately, they could more than hold their own, right up until Scola arrived at the exact right moment to save Nina from getting shot in the face.
Back at the office, Nina admitted how scared she was, and tried to propose to Scola, until he stopped her. He grabbed a ring box from his locked desk drawer and got down on one knee, telling her, "We gotta do one thing the normal way."
And of course, his "normal way" of asking was, "So will you marry me or what?"
Cut to the courthouse, where they're tying the knot in front of Maggie, OA, Jubal (Jeremy Sisto) and Isobel (Alana De La Garza). Because who needs family when you've got coworkers? (We joke, but it was extremely sweet.)
Boyd and VanSanten talked all about their big episode—and which FBI agents should couple up next—in an interview with Parade.
Related: CBS’s ‘FBI’ Gets a Spinoff: What to Know About New Police Procedural ‘CIA’
What was it about this case that changed things for Nina and Scola?
Grace VanSanten: When I broke down the script, for me, it was the closest to a near-death experience [she 's had]. She's been through a lot—she's been shot—but there's just moments in your life where it changes everything. I think that moment, being completely unarmed and that close to the barrel of a gun, and luckily saved by her partner, just changed something. That fear that came forward that she doesn't normally have…She doesn't normally have a whole lot of fear. She's a bit ruthless. That's what was different for me when I read it.
John Boyd: Yeah, I think it's a sweet thing for them to change their mind. I think it's something he was obviously weighing, because he was holding onto the ring. [They had to] understand their relationship in a way that makes them want to solidify it in a way that's meaningful to each other.
How did you guys take that moment where Scola says they have to do one thing "the normal way?" What does that say about their relationship?
Boyd: Well, the audience has been along for this ride of just how messy their relationship is—their relationship to the job and what they do, and how they love each other…I think that line carries the reality of how it is to be with another human being. To do this one thing the normal way is him sweetly taking control and putting it down in a way that says we're not going to do [marriage] the normal way, or our normal way.
VanSanten: I don't know if Scola really anticipated that that was going to be what she had to say and where it was leading. You can't prepare yourself in life for surprise, so how do you react to it? I love that about Scola and Nina, that they always seem to find a way to be organic and authentically them.
Nina and Scola go from fighting to proposing to the wedding, all in one episode. How did you react to the way it played out so quickly, and hearing the proposal but not the vows?
VanSanten: I think it's great, because first you get to see this case. It's always fun anytime we get to go undercover because you get to play against what everybody expects you to be, or show a different side. And then for me to get to play in a case with Missy and I being partners, like all of it felt new, every moment of the entire episode, from what I was wearing to who my partner was. It felt more intense, and then going into the proposal…The proposal is really what it's about for me. That's the moment for me. It's always great to see people in love and get married, but hearing them speak to only one another, for one another, in an intimate, quiet office proposal was really beautiful and wonderful.
I also love leaving some mystery. There's been people that have asked us, 'What would you write? Would you have written vows?' And it's like, I don't know. I can't tell you, and maybe that's a good thing that we leave everybody wanting to know more, because it means that they're invested.
I mean, the fact that he had the ring so easily accessible, at work, feels like it says a lot about them.
VanSanten: Yeah, great hiding place. I mean, it's only been, like, four and a half years of watching these two people, starting off with a one-night stand to this. So I would hope that it's somewhat of a payoff for the audience.
How does being married change things for them? Does it change anything?
Boyd: I don't know. I don't think we can possibly know yet. I think the only thing they know by the time they get married is that they can get through anything.
VanSanten: The hope is always that everything's solved and wonderful and you're married now. But the truth is it's just another day, and you still have to make the choice to love one another…It'll be fun if we ever get to see them again, to see where they're at and what they're doing. I know that for me, there was this beautiful culmination moment that I got to have, because after Most Wanted ended, I was like, 'We never got to see them again!' It was such an ingrained part of the story for Nina, an anchor, so I felt really grateful to get to go back and do it.
So will we see more of you on the show?
VanSanten: We don't know. I never know 'til I get a phone call.
What can you tease about the rest of the season? What are you excited for people to see?
Boyd: I'm excited for people to see this huge, three-day sequence that we shot that involves myself, Juliana, and Zeeko hijacking a semi-truck. It was nuts. Masked and hooded. We spent three days shooting this huge stunt sequence. There's some complicated love…some interesting love things for OA that they're exploring right now.
Well, since you guys are now married, who else can we ship on the show? Who are you guys shipping?
VanSanten: I want to find OA somebody.
Boyd: Yeah, it's time.
VanSanten: He has a whole different side that the audience has never seen. Like, goofy. He has this infectious laugh.
Boyd: We need to get that special person in OA's life that brings out his silly, goofy side.
I mean, he and Maggie shared a sweet look during your wedding…
Boyd: Oh yeah. I mean, listen, you never know. We're all hoping. We're like, "Hey guys, it worked for us. Maybe you want to think about that for yourselves…"
Star Once Ranked TV’s No. 1 ‘B---h’ Says Fans Are ‘Amazed’ When She Plays Nice
For millions of viewers, Little House on the Prairie star Alison Arngrim will forever be Nellie Oleson—the perfectly curled, expertly cruel rival who made life in Walnut Grove delightfully miserable for Melissa Gilbert's Laura Ingalls
And as it turns out, Arngrim has embraced that legacy fully.
During a recent appearance on Steve Dale’s Other World, the actress reflected on being voted television’s No. 1 “bitch” in a 1995 Hall of Fame Vanity Fair article—a ranking she says she wears as a badge of honor.
Melissa Gilbert as Laura Elizabeth Ingalls Wilder, Alison Arngrim as Nellie Oleson in 'Back to School: Part 1 and 2' episode of 'Little House on the Prairie,' September 1979.NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images
“The beautiful Vanity Fair magazine did this huge TV issue where they did TV's best moms, TV's best dads… all the categories. And then I flip through the pages and there's a category that just says 'bitches.' And I'm number one."
In case you're curious, the rest of the rankings were as follows:
- Joan Collins (Dynasty)
- Heather Locklear (Melrose Place)
- Betty White (The Mary Tyler Moore Show)
- Jane Wyman (Falcon Crest)
- Eileen Fulton (As the World Turns)
Long before that ranking, however, fans had already given her a nickname.
“They started calling me the prairie bitch some years ago. I was about, yay, 12. I mean, yelling it out of windows and cars,” Arngrim recalled. “And I went, well, I guess that's how this is going to be. And I just kind of went with it… And so I've been proudly the prairie bitch ever since.”
The role of Nellie Oleson—which Arngrim landed at age 11 (she turned 12 shortly after filming began) after originally auditioning for Laura and Mary—turned her into one of television’s most memorable villains. But off-screen, she says the contrast can surprise people.
“And my friends and fans come up to me, and they go, ‘Well, you were nice!’ I know it actually does happen occasionally," said Arngrim.
In fact, Arngrim has long said playing such an over-the-top antagonist was cathartic.
“It was very cleansing,” she said of portraying Nellie during her teenage years. “All the bad stuff was out. I got all the bad stuff out. It was great.”
Decades later, Arngrim has transformed that “girl you love to hate” fame into a successful second act that includes a best-selling memoir titled "Confessions of a Prairie B*tch: How I Survived Nellie Oleson and Learned to Love Being Hated," live comedy shows and the official 50th anniversary Little House podcast.
But one thing hasn’t changed: she’s still perfectly happy being remembered as Walnut Grove’s most notorious mean girl.
After all, as the ranking proves—she was No. 1.
Tame Impala’s Kevin Parker Admits He Slept Through His 2026 Grammy Win
Well, that’s one way to stave off the awards show jitters. Despite being nominated, Tame Impala’s Kevin Parker wasn’t in attendance at the 2026 Grammy Awards on February 1.
In fact, the “Let It Happen” artist, 40, was all the way in Australia, far removed from the pomp and circumstance of music’s biggest night. “Look, I’m going to be dead honest with you. I forgot they were even on,” Parker told Mac DeMarco for Interview Magazine in a piece published on February 19. “I forgot that I was nominated as well.”
“You have to imagine my confusion, because in Australia, we wake up and then we find out about what happened in America last night, so my phone has absolutely blown up," Parker, who is based in Perth, which is 16 hours ahead of Los Angeles, recalled.
Kevin Parker of Tame Impala performs onstage during the Deadbeat Tour Kick Off at Barclays Center on October 27, 2025, in New York City. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Columbia Records)"I’ve got 30 messages on my phone, all saying congratulations," he added. "None of them are saying what for. And I’m like, “What for, motherf---ers?”
Parker snagged his second Grammy for Best Dance/Electronic Recording category for the Deadbeat single “End of Summer.”
Later this year, Parker will be embarking on his Deadbeat North American tour with supporting acts Djo and Dominic Fike.
From July 7 to August 5, Parker and Djo’s Joe Keery of the Stranger Things fame will play in Miami, Tampa, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Montreal, Toronto, Boston, and Nashville.
From August 25 to September 19, Parker will be joined by Euphoria’s Fike in Columbus, Minneapolis, Seattle, Vancouver, Portland, Denver, Phoenix, and Houston.
1960's 'Force of Nature' Ranked 'Best Singer of All Time'
Long before shows like The Voice and American Idol turned singing into a competitive sport, iconic vocalists were making their mark on music history. And while there have of course been some amazing singers to debut in recent years, many of the most beloved voices ever have been winning fans over for generations.
When Rolling Stone ranked the 200 best singers of all time, the top 10 included artists with hits going as far back as the 1930s. In tenth place was the incomparable Al Green, known for early '70s hits like "Tired of Being Alone," "Take Me to the River," and "Let's Stay Together" (still a popular wedding song choice).
Ranked at #9 was Otis Redding, whose "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay" became the first posthumous number-one record on both the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts in 1968 (he died in a plane crash shortly after recording the song). Coming in eighth was the versatile Beyoncé, famed for her unique ability to sing everything from pop to soul to opera to country (plus, she can rap), followed by the multi-talented former child prodigy Stevie Wonder at #7, whose instantly recognizable voice helped send '70s classics like "Superstition" and "I Wish" to the top of the charts. Ray Charles followed in the #6 position, over half a century since his first number one hit, 1960's "Georgia on My Mind."
Kicking off the top five was Mariah Carey, who stunned listeners with her range long before she was crowned the unofficial Queen of Christmas, followed by the legendary Billie Holiday, who had her first bestselling song with 1939's haunting "Strange Fruit." Superstar and civil rights activist Sam Cooke — whose 1964 hit “A Change Is Gonna Come" was inspired by Bob Dylan’s “Blowin in the Wind" — was ranked third on the list. Whitney Houston, beloved for her wildly successful '90s cover of Dolly Parton's "I Will Always Love You," among so many other hits, took second place.
So who was crowned the number one best singer of all time? That honor very well-deservingly went to the Queen of Soul herself, Aretha Franklin.
As Rolling Stone put it, Franklin was more than just a singer, she was a "force of nature. A work of genius. A gift from the heavens."
"Aretha Franklin’s voice is all that and more, which is why she remains the unchallenged Queen, years after her final bow," the article continued, going on to call her singing "the most magnificent sound to emerge from America — more universal than Coltrane’s horn, bolder than Hendrix’s guitar. She blew up worldwide with her 1967 hit 'Respect,' claiming her throne as the greatest pop, rock, or soul singer ever. As Mary J. Blige told Rolling Stone, 'She is the reason why women want to sing.'"
Related: 1967 Best-Selling Hit Ranked No. 1 'Greatest Song' of All Time
Target's Nostalgic New Collection Is Inspired by an Iconic '90s Movie
The '90s are back in a big way. From oversized denim to cozy sweatshirts and bold graphics, the trends that defined a generation are suddenly everywhere again. Shoppers are leaning into throwback style, mixing vintage vibes with modern comfort. And now, Target is tapping into that nostalgia with a brand-new collection that feels straight out of your childhood.
The collection celebrates 30 years of Space Jam, the beloved 1996 basketball movie that starred Michael Jordan alongside the iconic Looney Tunes crew. When the film first hit theaters on Nov. 15, 1996, it became a pop culture sensation. It grossed more than $250 million worldwide and turned into the highest-grossing basketball film of all time. Even decades later, it remains a '90s classic that fans still adore.
What's in the Collection View this post on InstagramTarget's new Space Jam collection, shown by @targetgems, is packed with fun pieces for both adults and kids. Think cozy sweatshirts, graphic tees and sporty jackets that channel that classic '90s energy. There are also plushies, tumblers, and throw blankets that make it easy to bring a little nostalgia into your everyday routine.
The designs feel playful but wearable. You can rock a bold sweatshirt for a casual weekend look or grab a tumbler to show off your fandom at work. For families, the matching clothing options are especially cute. Parents who grew up watching Space Jam can now share that love with their kids in a fun, stylish way.
With '90s fashion trending again in 2026, this drop feels perfectly timed. Oversized fits, retro graphics and relaxed silhouettes are everywhere right now. Target's collection blends that throwback vibe with comfortable fabrics and affordable prices, making it easy to join the trend without breaking the bank.
Related: Target's Cute and Colorful Front Porch Decor Makes Your Home Look Spring-Ready
Why Fans Are So ExcitedSpace Jam was more than just a movie. It was a cultural moment. The mix of live-action and animation, the unforgettable soundtrack and the larger-than-life basketball scenes made it a hit. It also sparked massive retail sales back in the day, with merchandise flying off shelves.
Now, three decades later, Target is giving fans a fresh way to celebrate that legacy. The collection feels nostalgic without being dated. It's perfect for cozy movie nights, casual outings, or simply adding a fun statement piece to your wardrobe.
Whether you watched Space Jam in theaters in the '90s or discovered it later, this new Target collection brings that joyful energy back.
Related: Target's Gorgeous Vintage-Inspired Find Is the Best $5 You'll Spend This Spring
Why This ‘Star Trek’ Star Couldn’t Sleep While Playing His Iconic Role
Star Trek icon Brent Spinerrevealed he had some difficulty playing his beloved character, android Data.
During a 2023 interview on Michael Rosenbaum's podcast, Inside of You, Spiner discussed portraying the character, who first appeared in Star Trek: The Next Generation. Spiner noted that Data had quite a bit of dialogue, especially during the show's first few seasons. He said that he would spend his nights trying to memorize his lines after he got home from set.
"I used to have a deal with myself, I would go home after 16 hours or whatever because we were doing also 26 episodes a year back then, and I'd come home and I'd say 'Okay let me open up a script,'" recalled the actor in the interview. "And my stomach would turn over, you know. I would think 'I've got to learn this for tomorrow?' I had a deal with myself that I couldn't go to sleep until I could say it out loud one time perfectly, so I knew I could do it the next day."
He went on to say that he ended up having sleepless nights because of said deal.
"There were a lot of times I didn't sleep, let me say that. Because I had that deal with myself, that unfortunate deal," said Spiner in the podcast interview.
He said that the situation got better following the show's second season, which premiered in 1988. He explained that the show's producers realized that it would be beneficial for each episode to focus on one character. Spiner said this enabled the stars of Star Trek: The Next Generation, which included Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, Michael Dorn, Marina Sirtis, andLeVar Burton, to have easier work days when their characters weren't the focus.
He recalled, however, that Data once had two back-to-back episodes during the show's 7th and final season. He recalled telling a producer he was concerned about the situation, especially because he had to play five characters in Season 7, Episode 17 ("Masks"). According to Spiner, the producer told him they had "faith in" him. He said while he managed to successfully film to the two Data-focused episodes, he did "some of the most preposterous acting" in "Masks."
"The other actors were laughing in my face at some of the characters I was doing," recalled the Star Trek actor.
During a 2019 panel at the Big Apple Comic Con, Spiner said he didn't usually voice his complaints during his time on Star Trek: The Next Generation.
"I thought the writing was good and so I was pretty much happy to do it. And also when I did make that rare phone call to say, 'I don't think this is quite what Data would say,' they would say to me, 'Just do your job,'" said Spiner on the panel.
Following Star Trek: The Next Generation's end in 1994, Spiner returned to play Data in the 1994 film Star Trek Generations, Star Trek: First Contact (1996), Star Trek: Insurrection (1998), Star Trek: Nemesis (2002), the series, Star Trek: Enterprise, and Star Trek: Picard, per IMDb.
21 Books Like 'Fourth Wing,' According to Librarians
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While there are plenty of genres to choose from when you're looking to dive into a new book, romantasy is having a major moment right now. The best part? Many viral TikTok (aka BookTok) favorites can be found on Kindle Unlimited—whether you enjoy extra elements of mythology or something that leans more into sci-fi territory. One romantasy book that has taken social media by (onyx) storm is Fourth Wing.
If you've read this book (and the rest of the series by Rebecca Yarros), you know exactly why it's so popular. It truly has a little bit of everything—from a steamy romance to dragons, magic, high-stakes political situations and war. It's a true page-turner that keeps you hooked from the very beginning.
I'm a huge fan of the series myself and have been not-so-patiently waiting for the next novel in the series to drop. Unfortunately, Yarros herself said it could be a while before that happens (sigh). So, instead, to scratch that itch, we asked librarians for a list of books like Fourth Wing to hold fans over in the meantime.
While librarian Taylor Coonelly says that she loves this series and it's a great way to dip your toes into the world of romantic fantasy, this list will help you expand your horizons.
"I do enjoy the book and series, but I think that there is a considerable amount of fantasy and 'fantasy romance' books that are underrepresented in the literary world because of the immense virality of this series on the internet," she tells Parade. "I think that people felt hooked into the relationship between Violet and Xaden and the enemies-to-lovers arc that they have throughout (not to mention the incredibly spicy scenes the characters share). During this time, #BookTok was gaining a lot of traction, and the series was picked up by popular book influencers who inspired others to read and enjoy."
This may partially explain why the series went so viral, but that doesn't mean it became popular for nothing. It inspired a community of readers to dive deeper into romance stories with high-fantasy elements, and that's what this list is all about. After chatting with two expert librarians, here are 21 books like Fourth Wing to give a go that give off the same vibe. All of them are the first in a series, so they'll definitely keep you busy in the days and months to come.
Related: 21 Best 'Fourth Wing' Memes
Where to even start with this one...
This story weaves an intricate tale filled with politics, romance, fantasy and friendship—that's one of the many reasons why it's so popular. It's the first novel in Yarros's Empyrean series, and each novel after leaves you equally as hooked. It follows the main female lead, Violet Sorrengail, who is forced to enlist in the Basgiath War College and train to become a dragon rider, the kingdom's elite military force.
"This series is an adult fantasy romance, with heavy spice scenes and portrayals of war," Coonelly shares. "While facing the physical challenges of training, and the harshness of her wingleader Xaden Riorson, Violet begins to uncover secrets about the kingdom she has vowed to protect."
Librarian Alexa Carrillo adds that this story is a journey of self-discovery for the main female character.
"We follow dragons, a female lead that uses her brains alongside her growing strength to face an exam that was not made for her physicality, all while she is making new friends and developing feelings for her 'enemy' [Xaden Riorson]," she says.
While I don't want to give too much away if you haven't read the series yet, the above paints a good general picture of what's in store if you want to give it a go. As long as you're OK with some scenes of an explicitly sexual nature, then this is worthy of any romantasy lover's list.
Related: 29 ‘Must-Read’ Magical Realism Books, According to Librarians
If you have read all the books in the Empyrean series and are looking for something to tide you over until the next book comes out, Coonelly says there are a few key things a book should have to evoke the vibe of Fourth Wing.
"The three elements to focus on are an intense romance plotline, high-stakes political undertones and a magical force that binds the world created by the author (dragons, fae, etc.)," she shares.
Carrillo echoes that there must be magic and intrigue to really hook you in, as Fourth Wing does.
"I think world-building is a key to having a book be [similar to] Fourth Wing and, of course, dragons," she says. "They are crucial to the story and make up the magic system."
While it's a little tough to find a ton of other books with dragons, lean into romance with an intricate magic system—that will still evoke the Fourth Wing vibes even if it doesn't have dragons.
Related: 150 of the Most Wonderful Quotes About Reading & Books for Book-Lovers
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The Bridge Kingdom is the first book in a six-book series. Carrillo loves this series for Fourth Wing readers because it's a sweeping romance with plenty of action.
"[This features] a fierce female lead, political intrigue and a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers dynamic that mirrors Violet and Xaden's evolving relationship," she tells Parade.
Amazon
Fireborne is the first book in the young adult fantasy trilogy The Aurelian Cycle. Similar to Fourth Wing, this series also features dragon riders and is a shoo-in for readers of the series.
"This one has dragon riders, academy training, political conflict and romance," Carrillo shares. "Almost a natural follow-up if you're craving more of that dragon bond and court intrigue vibe."
Coonelly also recommends this book for strong Fourth Wing vibes and says it even evokes some Game of Thrones energy.
"It has class family dynamics and dragon riding at the center of the story," she explains. "The story follows two orphans from different social classes competing for a spot in a dragon-riding fleet, whose past threatens their competition. The romance in this story is not as strong as in Fourth Wing, but if you wanted to see more dragon action, this is the one for you."
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Both librarians recommend this series for Empyrean series readers.
"This is a dark fantasy romance featuring a steamy enemies-to-lovers relationship between an adopted human and a ruthless vampire," Coonelly says. "The high-stakes plot of a deathly competition makes this book similar to Fourth Wing. While I didn't love the ending of this series, the vibes are action-packed and gothic in a way that might interest Fourth Wing fans."
Carrillo echoes that this romance has a lot of spice to it.
"[It] combines steamy romantasy with danger. It's packed with tension and slow-burn relationship energy," she shares.
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Coonelly says this unique story features a lot of similar elements to Fourth Wing, including favorite tropes like enemies-to-lovers.
"This young adult fantasy book is a part of an African folklore-inspired duology that I thought was incredibly complex and well-done," she adds. "The romance in this book is between a crown princess and a refugee who has promised to assassinate her, and has the added element of a deadly competition in which both characters are at each other's throats for their benefit."
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If you're looking for more dragons, Carrillo says this novel, the first in The Roots of Chaos series, is definitely one to pick up.
"This features epic fantasy with dragons, powerful women and political stakes," she states. "It also has deeper world-building if you want something expansive like Fourth Wing’s realm."
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For even more dragons and a strong female lead, Carrillo says to pick up The Last Namsara, the first novel in the Iskari series.
"With dragons, personal vengeance and a strong heroine, this balances fantasy adventure with emotional stakes," she continues. "A good fit for dragon fans."
Related: 13 Best Audiobooks Narrated by Julia Whelan, According to Librarians
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If you like other high fantasy elements along with your romance, like fae, Coonelly says to give Our Vicious Oaths a try.
"I love both the female main character and male main character in this story, and the inclusion of a diverse fae and magic system," she shares. "This book has a romance between two strong characters that burns throughout and an inclusion of dragon-riding that creates a powerful combination for Fourth Wing readers to enjoy."
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The Cruel Prince is the first novel in Black's The Folk of the Air series. Coonelly says this is another great option featuring the fae.
"The Folk of the Air trilogy has been compared to Fourth Wing for many reasons, but most popularly the different enemies-to-lovers romances followed throughout the series and the high-stakes world of Faerie," she shares. "I really enjoyed the complex political hierarchy created for this world, and find it mimics some of the same themes in Fourth Wing."
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This novel has been on my Goodreads list for months, and Carrillo's endorsement of it has convinced me even further that it's worth the read.
"This novel features a brutal military-style world with a fierce heroine navigating deadly adversaries and emotional bonds," she states. "It's great if you loved the fight for survival aspect of Fourth Wing."
Amazon
If you ever wondered where the Netflix show came from, this novel is the source material, and Carrillo says it's the perfect option for Fourth Wing lovers. It's the first novel in TheShadow and BoneTrilogy.
"It's a series that has magic schools, war looming and a powerful girl discovering strength, balanced with a sweeping fantasy world that hooks you like Fourth Wing," she shares.
Amazon
If your favorite element of the Empyrean series was the sizzling dynamic between Violet and Xaden, Coonelly says this novel is a must-read.
"This first [book] in a duology (with the second book releasing in September 2026) has one of my favorite enemies-to-lovers relationships in a fantasy book I have read," she gushes. "Both characters are given individual storylines and motivations while their relationship builds in a realistic way. The banter between them is incredible, and there is an undercurrent of political power woven with magic that keeps readers hooked."
Amazon
From Blood and Ash is the first novel in the Blood and Ash series, which has seven books (six are out currently) planned at this time. This first novel is one of my absolute favorites in the series because it features one of my all-time favorite book romances. It has incredible world-building, heart-melting lines, a charming main male character and political betrayal and intrigue that rivals Fourth Wing in so many ways.
Coonelly also loves the book and recommends it.
"While not the enemies-to-lovers romance seen in Fourth Wing, Armentrout's romance between our main character and the guard sworn to protect her is swoon-worthy," she states. "This book also features a complex and action-packed story for readers to dive into—and not to mention, vampires!"
Amazon
According to Carrillo, there's so much to The Ruin of Kings and the rest of the A Chorus of Dragons series that echoes Fourth Wing.
"This is a complex fantasy adventure with prophecy, political intrigue and layered characters," she adds. "Great for readers who want more dimension beyond the romance."
Amazon
If you're totally hooked on the fantasy element of dragons, Carrillo says this is another fantastic choice for Fourth Wing lovers. It's also Book One of the nine-book Temeraire series.
"This is strong on dragon bonds and organized training," she explains. "If you enjoyed the mix of structured training, dragon bonding and action in the skies, this book is [that] with a slightly more militaristic tone."
Amazon
While this story does feature dragons, Coonelly says it offers a different take on the element.
"This story follows a nomadic main character tasked with stealing from a dragon hoard with a gang of morally grey thieves—sounds easy, right?" she shares. "I thought that this was incredibly unique as a fantasy heist story with a dragon-focused society, and [it] has a lot of the same action and world-building as Fourth Wing."
Amazon
I happened to pick up this book on Kindle Unlimited after I finished Fourth Wing and quickly grew to love the female main character. My only complaint is that it's only a duology series, and I wish it took more time to flesh out the world-building. Other than that, it's a great read if you love the hunter-and-hunted dynamic.
Coonelly also says this is a good option for Empyrean series readers.
"This book is perfect if you're looking for something to match the enemies-to-lovers vibes in Fourth Wing without the complex political fantasy subplots," she explains. "I loved the relationship between the main characters, a vigilante witch saving her own kind and a notorious witch hunter, and how it develops through the story."
Amazon
Coonelly says this first book in The Evermore Trilogy has a lot to offer Fourth Wing lovers.
"This is about a young princess who is sold off to her enemy's estate after the war," she explains. "This book is a very dark and steamy enemies-to-lovers romantasy that might appeal to those who wanted more from the Fourth Wing romantic plotline."
Important to note that she also issues some content warnings: "This book does contain mentions of sexual slavery/human trafficking, non-consensual situations, sexual violence, and war."
Amazon
Coonelly says this classic book and prequel to the Lord of the Rings series offers high fantasy elements that paved the way for books like Fourth Wing.
"Any good fantasy recommendation list needs to include these two classic series that inspired what the genre is today," she explains. "While there is no dragon riding, The Hobbit focuses largely on the dragon Smaug and the journey of a group of dwarves and one hobbit in defeating the dragon."
She says that both series—The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings—"have incredible world-building and political conflict throughout..."
"And the differing forms of magic and fantasy creatures written by Tolkien are foundational for more current fantasy novels," she states. "This recommendation is more slow-paced, but a must-read."
Amazon
If you loved the high-stakes situations created by Fourth Wing, Carrillo says this novel (the first in The Scholomance series) by Naomi Novik is worth reading next.
"Set in a lethal magical school where students are expected to die, this mirrors Basgiath's survival of the fittest structure," she shares. "The heroine is powerful but underestimated, and the tension includes a slow-burn romance with a morally grey male lead."
Amazon
Carrillo also loves this first book in the Red Rising series.
"Though sci-fi rather than fantasy, it uses the same 'deadly elite academy' structure where students are divided into faction[s] and must survive strategic, violent trials," she says.
Amazon
This read was a personal favorite of mine last year, and it held me over until the most recent book in the Empyrean series dropped. Carrillo also loves and thinks it's perfect for those readers.
"Instead of dragons, [the characters] bond with wolves, and the main female lead is desperate to save her family, so she enters the Bonding Trials," she explains. "It's a deadly competition to become a warrior and gain [the] power and strength that she needs."
Up Next:
Related: 25 Best Short Books You Can Easily Read in a Day, According to Librarians
Sources:- Taylor Coonelly is a librarian and the face behind the #BookTok account @Taylorinthestacks.
- Alexa Carrillo is a librarian in California and face behind #BookTok account @lexasmilesss.
'Ms. Rachel' Veteran Joins 'Reading Rainbow' as Reboot Gets 24-Episode Pickup
If you're from a certain generation and Reading Rainbow happens to pop into your head, there's a good chance that classic theme song will be stuck in your head for awhile.
And now, after a four-episode reboot on digital last year, the beloved PBS show is officially back with a whopping 24 episodes secured, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Mychal Threets, otherwise known as "Mychal the Librarian," is returning as the reboot's host after LeVar Burton signed off the air 20 years ago.
View this post on InstagramPlus, Sesame Street and Ms. Rachel veteran Kristen McGregor is joining the show as executive producer and showrunner, THR also noted on. Monday, Feb. 23.
“When I saw the response to the relaunch of Reading Rainbow and the enthusiasm for Mychal as host, it was clear there is a passionate audience that truly values educational children’s programming,” said Michael Davies, executive producer and president of Sony Pictures Television's Embassy Row. “This series offers more than entertainment—it empowers viewers through reading, which feels especially critical at a time when literacy rates are in historic decline. I’m incredibly excited to welcome Kristen and her expertise as we continue to evolve the show and discover what new magic Reading Rainbow can bring.”
“We’ve been working for several years to bring Reading Rainbow back, and Michael Davies and Embassy Row have been the ideal partners to help make that vision a reality,” added Tom Calderone, CEO and president of producing company Buffalo Toronto Public Media. “Seeing the impact these first four episodes have already had confirms that the timing is right — and that evolving the series for today’s audiences is both necessary and meaningful.”
The show was revived last year with four digital episodes as a series for the Sony-owned YouTube channel KudZuko, garnering some 4.8 million views. Sony is taking the new batch of 24 episodes to market, THR reports, seeking to sell the season to a TV network or streaming service.
Last year's four-episode revival featured Gabrielle Union, Adam DeVine, John Legend and Chrissy Teigen as book narrators within the show.
'Home Improvement' Star Sentenced to 1 Year in Jail
One Home Improvement star is in hot water once again—and this time, he’s headed behind bars.
Zachery Ty Bryan was sentenced to 16 months in county jail after pleading guilty in connection to a 2024 DUI arrest. According to a TMZ article shared on Monday, February 23, Bryan admitted during an arraignment hearing to driving under the influence and acknowledged an enhancement for having a blood alcohol content of 0.15% or higher—which, if you weren’t aware, is nearly double the legal limit of 0.08%.
Court docs obtained by the outlet show Bryan, 44, also admitted to having two prior DUI convictions. With multiple offenses on his record, the judge denied probation and handed down the 16-month sentence, granting him credit for 57 days already served. The records indicate that if Bryan were to face a fourth DUI conviction in the future, the penalties would be more severe.
Bryan was originally arrested by La Quinta Police in 2024 for driving under the influence with three or more priors. In 2020 he was arrested following an argument with his then-partner, Johnnie Faye Cartwright. He was charged with felony strangulation, fourth-degree assault and interfering with making a police report, later pleading guilty to two misdemeanor domestic violence charges. He served seven days in jail and was placed on 36 months of probation. Around that same time, The Hollywood Reporter detailed allegations that Bryan was involved in an agriculture tech startup scheme in which he allegedly accepted nearly $50,000 in investments under “fraudulent circumstances.”
The arrests continued. In 2023, he faced charges including felony assault, robbery and harassment. In 2024, he was arrested twice on DUI-related charges. Then in January 2025, he was arrested in South Carolina on second-degree domestic violence charges, with reports alleging he “choked” Cartwright and “punched her in the head” Months earlier, he had also been taken into custody in Oregon for allegedly violating probation tied to a prior domestic violence conviction.
Bryan was once known for his role as Brad Taylor on the hit ’90s sitcom, which starred Tim Allen.
Reps for Bryan have not responded to Parade’s request for comment at this time.
Marshalls Has a $15 Reversible Botanical Throw Blanket With Cozy Dark Cottagecore Vibes
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Aesthetics are everything in the interior design space. We live in a world where there's really a core vibe for any taste, whether you lean granny-chic or have a penchant for more dramatic looks. Usually, one overarching theme tends to emerge as the star player of the room's design focus, and it sets the tone for everything from the furniture to the accessories.
If you want to play around with different design styles, particularly homey aesthetics like grandmillenial and cottagecore, a piece like the Laura Ashley Reversible Throw Blanket could be exactly what your space needs. It's the ultimate level-up accent for any room, and it makes it easy for you to add a little splash to the room without making a costly commitment.
Laura Ashley Reversible Throw Blanket, $15 (was $30) at MarshallsThe beauty of this blanket is that it bridges the gap between multiple worlds. The Laura Ashley brand is known for its heritage-driven and very tasteful English home accessories, epitomizing cottagecore and bringing a hint of romance and country-inspired charm to your space. There's an old-world appeal that appeals to a very specific design subset.
Related: Marshalls Is Selling a Floral Scalloped Crystal Lamp That Looks Like an Antique Store Find
Both sides of this blanket exemplify that in a fresh way. One features a blush-toned diamond medallion pattern that feels simultaneously preppy and grandmotherly in the best way. It's a look that's everywhere right now, offering a bit of comforting vintage warmth coupled with a pattern you might spy in a refined bedroom.
It's the other side that really veers the blanket in another direction. Blending pumpkins, spiderwebs, and botanical vines, it's simultaneously dark, cottagecore-coded, and muted at once thanks to the soft color palette blending shades of dusty rose with soft beige and chocolate brown. That also lifts it slightly away from the conventional black and orange hues that dominate fall, making the autumn-themed motif feel more subtle and versatile for year-round use.
Because it's essentially two blankets in one, you can really amplify its decorating potential. It measures 50 inches wide by 70 inches long, making it a great option to toss on the couch or lay out on the bed. The quality is top-tier, with a soft polyester fabric that's machine washable and designed to retain its color and texture over time.
Shop More Deals- Laura Ashley Down Alternative Comforter Set, $60 (was $85) at Marshalls
- Peri Home Floral Stripe Sheet Set, $30 (was $40) at Marshalls
- Isaac Jacobs 3-Tier Foldable Metal Cart, $40 (was $56) at Marshalls
At half off its usual price, the Laura Ashley Reversible Throw Blanket makes an eye-catching addition to any room. Don’t miss your chance to score it for only $15 while it’s still in stock!
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.
Beloved '80s Animated Movie Is Heading to IMAX for the First Time
This iconic classic is flying into IMAX theaters next month.
It was announced on Monday that Studio Ghibli's Kiki's Delivery Service will be released in IMAX theaters for the first time the week of March 13. Following the success of Princess Mononoke on IMAX last December, the cinema technology company and film distributor GKIDS will continue their partnership and release more Studio Ghibli films throughout 2026.
Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, Kiki's Delivery Service is a Japanese animated fantasy film that follows a 13-year-old witch named Kiki (Minami Takayama) who moves to Koriko with her cat Jiji (Rei Sakuma) and they start a flying courier service. The movie is based on the 1985 children's novel with the same title written by Eiko Kadono.
Studio Ghibli is a popular Japanese animation studio that was founded by Miyazaki, Toshio Suzuki and Isao Takahata, and is best known for producing multiple children's anime films throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, including My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle and Ponyo.
The Studio Ghibli logo is seen displayed on a smartphone screen.Thomas Fuller/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
Kiki's Delivery Service was originally released in Japan on July 29, 1989, and it was considered the first Studio Ghibli film to be successful upon release, making a total of $31 million dollars at the box office and becoming one of the highest-grossing films in Japan that year. In addition, the film received critical acclaim and multiple film awards. Two years later, an English dub was produced for Japan Airlines' international flights, then Walt Disney Studios produced an English version in 1998, with Kirsten Dunst and Phil Hartman voicing Kiki and Jiji, respectively, a decade after its initial release.
Many fans of the legendary movie posted their excitement about the upcoming IMAX release on X.
"Seeing Hayao Miyazaki on a massive IMAX screen?" a user wrote along with a screenshot of the official IMAX poster. "My childhood is screaming 😁."
"I feel like I'm flying when I watch the 4K trailer for Kiki's Delivery Service," Catsuka, a popular anime film fan account, quote-tweeted. "Thank you, GKIDS ♡."
An X account dedicated to posting film content wrote, "Hayao Miyazaki's Kiki's Delivery Service in IMAX is going to look so good."
"Ahhhhggg!!! That’s amazing," another wrote. "I can’t wait."
"That’s amazing. Seeing Kiki in IMAX is going to feel magical," one user commented.
"Seeing Miyazaki’s world in IMAX is pure nostalgia overload," another wrote. "my inner child is absolutely losing it."
Kiki and Jiji take on the world in IMAX 🐈⬛ Experience Kiki's Delivery Service in IMAX March 13. Tickets on sale now. https://t.co/vAKpUdTd2m pic.twitter.com/wSXH9WhOOl
— IMAX (@IMAX) February 23, 2026Tickets for Kiki's Delivery Service are now available in select movie theaters in the United States and Canada on IMAX's official website. Meanwhile, the film can be streamed on HBO Max.
Related: Fans Celebrate Anniversary of Iconic Movie Released 22 Years Ago
Nancy Guthrie News: Google Nest Photos Taken on 2 Different Nights, Sources Say
There may be a major update when it comes to the Google Nest photos taken at Nancy Guthrie's front door. The pictures and some videos were released by the Pima County Sheriff's Department as well as the FBI back on February 10.
Authorities believe that Guthrie, 84, may have been abducted from her Arizona home in the middle of the night on Sunday, Feb. 1. More than one week after she was reported missing, authorities were able to obtain footage from a Google Nest camera that was next to Guthrie's front door.
Related: Nancy Guthrie News: Latest Update Includes a Change to Her Personal Facebook Account
In some of the photos, a subject wearing a balaclava and carrying a backpack was seen at the door. In other photos, a similar figure is seen without a backpack, possibly wearing different shoes, and apparently opting for a full face mask. Now, it seems the photos may have been taken on two separate nights.
"These two photos of the Nancy Guthrie suspect were taken on different days, sources confirm to me and @LibbeyDean_ – indicating the suspect appears to have visited Guthrie’s house before the kidnapping," NewsNation's Brian Entin posted on X on Monday, Feb. 23.
These two photos of the Nancy Guthrie suspect were taken on different days, sources confirm to me and @LibbeyDean_ – indicating the suspect appears to have visited Guthrie’s house before the kidnapping. pic.twitter.com/0sC1nmVhYl
— Brian Entin (@BrianEntin) February 24, 2026Michael Ruiz with Fox News Digital reported the same.
"A source with knowledge of the investigation just confirmed to me that these two images were taken on different days and may show the same person," he wrote on X. "The image with no backpack was taken before the suspected abduction of Nancy Guthrie. Source declines to pinpoint the date, citing the open investigation," he added.
Ruiz also pointed out that authorities asked neighbors to check their home security systems, specifically requesting footage from January 11. It's unclear if the alternate photo taken on Guthrie's front stoop was from January 11.
Neither the Pima County Sheriff's Department nor the FBI have confirmed this information. However, Matt Finn of Fox News said that Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos responded to the report saying, "The info that it occurred on a different day did not come from the FBI or PCSD," but he did not deny the information.
Parade has not independently verified this update.
READ NEXT: DNA Findings in Nancy Guthrie Case Will Be ‘Conclusive,’ Even if They Take Months, Experts Say
Kelly Clarkson Covers 'One of the Best' Phil Collins Songs in 'Brilliant' Kellyoke Performance
Kelly Clarkson's latest Kellyoke cover is giving her fans all the feels.
The singer and talk show host took on an '80s Phil Collins classic for her Kellyoke performance on the Monday, Feb. 23 episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show, delivering an effortlessly smooth version of his 1986 hit "Take Me Home."
"Take Me Home" was the last single off Collins' No Jacket Required album, released as a U.S. single in 1986. It spent a total of 16 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 7 in May of that year.
40 years later, fans seem to think that Clarkson has definitely done the song justice.
View this post on InstagramOne commenter on Instagram called Clarkson's performance "An outstanding rendition of Phil’s timeless classic," while someone else said the cover gave them "FULL BODY CHILLS! 🔥🔥🔥"
"Brilliant! One of the best Kellyoke’s 👏🏽" another user gushed.
Another user wrote "Phil Collins + Kelly Clarkson = Absolute POP PERFECTION!" while others implored that Clarkson sing "more Phil" songs.
"Not many people can cover Phil Collins but this was brilliant ❤️❤️" someone else declared.
While many fans were delighted to hear a new Kellyoke cover, it was bittersweet for some who say they're going to miss the performances when The Kelly ClarksonShow ends after its current season.
"Girl!!!!! You simply cannot take Kellyoke away from us!!!" one user commented under Monday's video, while another begged, "Kelly, please don't go!"
Clarkson confirmed earlier this month that her eponymous talk show would be ending after 7 years on NBC.
Noting that it "was not an easy decision" to end the show, Clarkson explained in a statement on Instagram that she is aiming to spend more time with her two kids, RiverRose, 11 and Remington "Remy" Alexander, 9, whose father, Brandon Blackstock, died in August 2025.
"This isn’t goodbye," she promised in her Feb. 2 post. "But for now, I want to thank y’all so much for allowing our show to be a part of your lives, and for believing in us and hanging with us for seven incredible years."
Related: Kelly Clarkson Stirs Up Debate as She Names Top 4 Vocalists of All Time
This $25 IKEA Serving Stand Makes Any Gathering Feel Special
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A simple table can turn into something magical with the right centerpiece. Whether you're hosting a spring brunch, planning a birthday party or just treating yourself to a fancy night at home, presentation makes all the difference. A tiered display instantly adds height, charm, and that "wow" factor guests love. It's one of those small upgrades that make snacks feel like they belong at a café rather than on your kitchen counter.
The $25 IKEA serving stand shoppers are loving is the KVITTERA three-tier serving stand made of clear glass and stainless steel. This serving stand features three airy glass plates stacked at different heights, giving it a light, modern (yet somehow vintage) look. It's perfect for serving finger foods, sweets, or fruit. The plates can even be detached and adjusted, so you can change the height or use them separately depending on your gathering.
KVITTERA Serving Stand, $24.99 at IKEAIKEA
Spring is the perfect time to bring this IKEA serving stand out. Picture it at a sunny tea party with cucumber sandwiches, colorful macarons and fresh berries stacked neatly on each tier. It feels festive without being over-the-top. The clear glass keeps it looking clean and bright, which fits right in with spring decor and pastel table settings. Add a vase of flowers nearby, and suddenly your table looks straight out of a magazine.
Related: IKEA Is Opening More Stores Across the U.S.—Here's Whether or Not Your City Is on the List
This serving stand is not just for formal events. It works beautifully for casual get-togethers, too. Hosting friends for game night? Load it up with chips, mini sliders or bite-sized desserts. Planning a spring dinner party? Arrange shrimp, cheese cubes or chocolate-covered strawberries to make your appetizers pop.
IKEA is known for smart design at affordable prices, and this serving stand proves it. At just $25, it gives you a high-end look without a high-end price tag. It is sturdy, stylish and easy to store when the party is over. You can even use it on a quiet night in. Stack it with brownies, cookies or fruit, light a candle and enjoy a little treat-yourself moment at home.
Spring gatherings, holiday parties, birthday celebrations or cozy nights on the couch all feel more special with a thoughtful display. This IKEA serving stand adds height, elegance and fun to any table. For anyone looking to make their next get-together feel just a bit fancier without spending a fortune, this is an easy win.
86 Years Ago Today, a Disney Classic Based on 1883 Novel Was Released
Walt Disney released its second full-length animated feature, Pinocchio, on Feb. 23, 1940, based on Carlo Collodi’s 1883 Italian novel The Adventures of Pinocchio.
Following the monumental success of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, expectations were sky-high. Yet, Disney’s ambitious adaptation proved that animation could transcend mere entertainment, blending artistry and moral lessons into one unforgettable cinematic experience.
The story follows Pinocchio (voiced by Dickie Jones), a wooden puppet magically brought to life, who dreams of becoming a real boy. Guided by his conscience, Jiminy Cricket (Cliff Edwards), Pinocchio faces a series of moral trials that explore honesty, courage and selflessness.
Pinocchio, lobbycard, from left: Figaro, Cleo the Fish, Jiminy Cricket, , 1940.Photo by LMPC via Getty Images
From evading the scheming fox Honest John (Walter Catlett) to navigating the perils of Pleasure Island and the belly of Monstro the whale, the adventures are thrilling and, at times, dark, proving Disney’s willingness to tackle mature themes in children’s storytelling.
Every character pops in vibrant Technicolor: Pinocchio’s bright blue bow-tie, Jiminy Cricket’s dapper suit, Cleo the goldfish’s ruby-red lips, and the Blue Fairy’s ethereal glow.
Despite critical acclaim, Pinocchio struggled at the box office due to its $2.5 million budget and the outbreak of World War II, which limited international markets. However, re-releases after 1945 helped the film become profitable, and it now ranks among Disney’s greatest successes.
The movie made history at the 1941 Academy Awards, winning Best Original Score and Best Original Song for “When You Wish Upon a Star,” a tune that has become synonymous with Disney itself.
Over 86 years later, Pinocchio holds a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 99 on Metacritic, cementing its status as a cinematic masterpiece.
Pinocchio’s Lasting Influence in Disney ParksThe magic of Pinocchio extends beyond the silver screen. In 1983, Disneyland’s Fantasyland introduced Pinocchio’s Daring Journey, a dark ride depicting key scenes from the film, including Stromboli’s puppet show and Monstro’s terrifying chase.
According to Guessing Headlights, the attraction also inspired Pinocchio-themed restaurants and shops in Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, Walt Disney World, and Shanghai Disneyland, ensuring that each generation experiences the story firsthand.
Pinocchio is more than a story about a puppet wishing to be real. It’s a technical marvel, a tale of moral growth and a piece of cinematic history that proves animation can evoke deep emotion and wonder.
As Disney celebrates its 86th anniversary, fans worldwide continue to marvel at how a small wooden puppet could leave such a massive, enduring impact.
Walmart’s 'Charming' $50 Kitchen Playset Is the 'Aesthetically Pleasing' Upgrade Your Kid’s Playroom Needs
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Playing with a pretend kitchen set is pretty much a childhood rite of passage. Instead of a bulky plastic version that screams "toy," setting your child up with one that looks like a natural extension of your home can spark their imagination without ruining the aesthetic vibe of your space. Quality kids' toys don't always come cheap, but that doesn't mean you can't find incredible deals once in a while on playroom staples like this wooden farmhouse play kitchen at Walmart that's just $50 right now. Normally priced at $134, this adorable set is on clearance for just $50 right now.
Not only does the Best Choice Products Pretend Play Wooden Farmhouse Kitchen Set look like a real kitchen (and a super cute one!), it's made of high-quality materials, so it's safe for your kids to play with and built to last. It features a classic farmhouse design with a pretend sink, stove with clicking knobs, oven storage, open shelves, and also comes with a few fun accessories included.
Best Choice Products Pretend Play Wooden Farmhouse Kitchen Set, $50 (was $134) at WalmartCourtesy of Walamrt
Perfectly sized for toddlers and preschoolers, this play kitchen measures just under 36 inches high, is 25 inches long, and 13.5 inches deep. The compact size fits nicely in smaller spaces, but can be a huge encouragement for hours of creative play, pretend cooking, and baking. Thoughtful touches like moveable metal hardware (the knobs and sink handle actually turn), utensil hooks, and patterned backsplash make this pretend version seem more like a real kitchen than many other options out there.
Safety is paramount when selecting toys and furniture for your children, and this piece checks all the boxes. Designed to meet the design criteria for safety in children's toys by the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), it's constructed using only ASTM- and CPSIA-certified materials that have passed third-party laboratory testing to ensure compliance with U.S. federal safety standards. This means there are no toxic chemicals in the paint, and all of the engineered wood and metal components can be safely used by children.
Best Choice Products Pretend Play Wooden Farmhouse Kitchen Set, $50 (was $134) at Walmartcourtesy of Walma
Included with the kitchen are three child-sized utensils, a pot, and a pan in coordinating colors, so you don't have to buy any additional accessories if you don't want to. One shopper said, "The pots, pans, and utensils that it came with are charming."
Open shelving and a cabinet disguised as an oven double as toy storage, and soft-close doors mean no worrying about pinched fingers. Though this kitchen set does require some assembly, reviewers noted that it's straightforward and should only take about an hour to complete.
Related: Refresh Your Home With These Expert-Approved Spring Decor Styles, Starting at Just $7
Shoppers were impressed by the sleek design of this play kitchen as well as how it fit in with modern decor schemes. "It's very aesthetically pleasing and minimalist," one said. Another shared that "it's super cute and simple, yet has everything a kitchen needs."
Two colors have already sold out, but you can still score this incredibly adorable set in a trendy sage green or white with gold hardware and a white honeycomb backsplash, or white with matte black hardware and a retro floral backsplash.
Shop More Deals- Melissa & Doug Cutting Fruit Set, $13 (was $31) at Walmart
- Melissa & Doug Wooden Pizza Party Play Food Set, $14 (was $30) at Walmart
- Lehoo Castle Wooden Play Food Set, $27 (was $40) at Walmart
Don't miss this opportunity to score one of the cutest play kitchens for kids for just $50. Head to Walmart and add the Best Choice Products Pretend Play Wooden Farmhouse Kitchen Set to your cart before it's gone!
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Barbra Streisand Faces Backlash for 'Unhinged' Post About Alysa Liu’s Olympic Gold Medal
Barbra Streisand faced backlash for her "tone deaf" post about Team USA ice skater Alysa Liu's Olympic gold medal after mentioning she was "half Chinese."
On Feb. 19, Lui, 20, won gold for her free skate performance at the 2026 Milano Cortina Games, becoming the first U.S. woman to do so in the last 24 years.
Streisand, 83, took to Instagram on Feb. 20 to celebrate the accomplishment, writing, "We were so happy to see Alysa Liu win the gold medal in Milan yesterday. My husband just showed me that in 2019 she skated to my song 'Don’t Rain on My Parade.' I’m so proud of her."
The prolific singer continued, "I heard that she is half Chinese. My second family in Brooklyn that lived above us was a Chinese family called the Choys. I worked in their Chinese restaurant since I was 12 years old and also baby sat for their children. She was like a second mother to me."
View this post on InstagramRelated: Tim McGraw Reveals Controversial Song That "Set My Career in Motion"
In the comments, many of Streisand's followers called her out for the sudden turn in the congratulatory message. One Instagram user wrote, "'How do I make her gold medal winning accomplishment by an Asian woman about me?' -Barbra probably."
Another echoed, "How can I make someone else’s win about me.'"
Someone else admitted, "'I heard she is half Chinese' took me out," as a second follower agreed, writing, "half Chinese and then immediately recounts her encounter with Chinese people 😂."
A different fan declared, "Legendary caption. Like WTF, lol."
Another Instagram user commented, "This is such a stupid post. 'Oh, I heard Alysa Liu is half Chinese, so let me tell you about this Chinese family I know.' WTH?"
Still, someone else pointed out, "It is very grandma coded. 😂😭 it’s unhinged & odd thing to say, but I think she means no harm. Just old AF😭."
Yet another follower wondered, "Why would you think this caption is okay."
Meanwhile, a different Instagram user shared, "Just congratulating her would have been enough."
Next: Chicago P.D.’s Jesse Lee Soffer & Tracy Spiridakos Share Exciting News: "Welcome to the Family"
Olympian Alysa Liu Gets the Win of a Lifetime With Free Ice Cream for Life
Olympic gold medals are rare. Getting free ice cream for life might be even rarer. Fresh off her historic win in Milan, figure skater Alysa Liu just received one of the sweetest hometown honors imaginable—a lifetime supply of ice cream from a beloved San Francisco Bay Area institution.
Fentons Creamery in Oakland, Calif., publicly offered Liu "ice cream for life" in an Instagram post celebrating her achievement, calling the moment a win not just for the athlete but for the entire community. Fans flooded the comments to celebrate the gesture—and to pitch ideas for special sundaes inspired by Liu's gold-medal performance.
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A Sweet Surprise From a Bay Area Favorite View this post on InstagramIn the post, Fentons Creamery praised Liu for inspiring the community and offered to host a homecoming celebration upon her return from the Winter Olympics. "Ice cream for life? Seriously. We mean it," the creamery wrote, alongside a photo honoring the 20-year-old skater.
The historic ice cream shop, which first opened in 1894 and has been serving sundaes, malts, and house-made ice cream for more than a century, also promised that the sundaes would be ready when Liu comes home. The longtime Bay Area institution has become known for oversized desserts and old-school soda fountain vibes, making it a fitting place for the celebration.
The post struck a sentimental note, framing the offer as Oakland showing up for one of its own. Fans loved it. Comments ranged from "THE ULTIMATE PRIZE!" to jokes that the reward might be "more valuable than the gold medal." Others suggested creating a signature flavor inspired by Liu's look, with ideas like caramel-chocolate swirls or a gold-themed sundae.
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Why Alysa Liu's Win Feels So Personal to the Bay AreaLiu's Olympic moment has been especially meaningful for local fans. The skater, who grew up in Richmond and trains at the Oakland Ice Center, made history by becoming the first American woman to win Olympic gold in individual figure skating since 2002.
Her path to the podium wasn't straightforward. Liu stepped away from competitive skating at 16 after experiencing burnout, later returning to the sport on her own terms with more creative freedom. That comeback story has helped fuel the wave of support coming from across the Bay Area.
In recent days, she's received shout-outs from BART, AC Transit, Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee, and even Oakland native Marshawn Lynch, turning her win into something that feels bigger than sports.
Instead of chasing medals at all costs, she has spoken openly about finding joy in skating again, which made her comeback feel more relatable and human to many supporters watching from home.
Fans Already Want an Alysa Liu SundaeIf the comment section is any indication, the celebration may not stop at free ice cream. Fans have floated ideas for a custom dessert in Liu's honor, from renaming existing menu items to creating something entirely new inspired by her style and personality.
One Instagram commenter on the original post suggested a flavor inspired by her hair and gold-medal look, while others called the offer the real gold medal. Another suggested that the celebration should include "a parade down Piedmont Ave straight Timeless and then Fentons."
On Reddit, locals started swapping favorite Fentons orders while reacting to the news. Some shouted out the shop's butter pecan as a must-try, while others recommended the classic Black and Tan, a longtime menu favorite that mixes toasted almond and chocolate flavors.
Whether or not a signature sundae happens, the response shows how deeply people are rooting for Liu—and how the community quickly turned the moment into something bigger.
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The Meaning Behind Bob Seger's 'Left Field' Lyrics in Beloved 1980 Chart-Topper
Exactly 46 years ago, Bob Seger's "Fire Lake" debuted on the music charts, and now the legendary musician is looking back on the meaning behind the song's most thought-provoking lyrics.
To mark the exact day that "Fire Lake" debuted on Billboard's Hot 100 on Feb. 23 in 1980, Seger's social media team resurfaced an interview to Instagram on Monday, where he added some context to the metaphor in the track's lyrics.
As heard in the clip taken from an interview with radio host Jim O'Brien, Seger explained what he meant while singing the lines, "Who wants to break the news about uncle Joe? / You remember uncle Joe?/ He was the one afraid to cut the cake."
"I guess it's kind of a metaphor," he said, "for living on the edge."
Adding that the lyrics to "Fire Lake" may have seemed to be out of "left field," Seger maintained that he "knew" what he meant by some of the puzzling lines.
Describing what he meant by being "afraid to cut the cake," Seger said, "In other words, don't be afraid to experience life."
"You can go out there and risk things, you know?" he added.
View this post on Instagram"Fire Lake" by Seger & The Silver Bullet Band was released as a single off the 1980 album, Against the Wind.
It debuted on Billboard's Hot 100 that February, and would end up spending 16 total weeks on the chart, peaking at No. 6.
The fan-favorite song also famously features backing vocals from members of The Eagles.
"great great tune," one of Seger's fans commented under the Instagram post on Monday, while another user called "Fire Lake" a "masterpiece of brilliant songwriting."
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