AARP The Magazine April/May 2026: Arsenio Hall on Breaking Barriers, Patricia Cornwell Gets Personal, and a Cross-Country Guide to Authentic American Food

WASHINGTON—The April/May 2026 issue of AARP The Magazine (ATM) delivers exclusive conversations with cultural trailblazers, practical reporting on money and health, and inspiring stories about reinvention at midlife and beyond.

The issue features Arsenio Hall, the groundbreaking comedian and television host, in The A List, reflecting on a life defined by movement, ambition, and cultural impact—from a transient childhood to becoming the first Black late-night talk show host. ATM also spotlights bestselling author Patricia Cornwell, who opens up about resilience, creativity, and personal challenges in a candid What I Know Now interview.

Readers will also find a special AARP Travel package that takes them on a flavorful journey across the country with celebrated American chefs, along with actionable guidance on reducing health care costs, understanding biological age, and navigating life after the empty nest.

The issue also dives into how everyday habits influence the aging process, and shares practical, expert-backed ways on embracing change, taking risks, and rediscovering purpose in life’s next chapter.

In this issue of AARP The Magazine:

Upfront / The A List: Arsenio Hall
Trailblazing comedian and TV host Arsenio Hall reflects on a life shaped by constant change and breaking barriers. In conversation with ATM, Hall traces his journey from a transient childhood in Cleveland and early days as a young magician to his historic run as the first Black late-night talk show host. He shares memories of Johnny Carson, the hand-to-mouth early years in Hollywood, and his creative partnership with Eddie Murphy on Coming to America. Hall also speaks candidly about the responsibility of representing Black culture on mainstream television and looks ahead to the release of his forthcoming memoir, Arsenio.

Upfront / What I Now Know Patricia Cornwell
Bestselling crime writer Patricia Cornwell, known for the Kay Scarpetta series, opens up about a life defined by perseverance. In a deeply personal conversation, Cornwell discusses her battle with anorexia nervosa, her lifelong fascination with the spooky and macabre, and lessons learned from career highs and regrets. She also shares insights into her role as an executive producer on Scarpetta, the television adaptation of her novels, and previews her upcoming memoir, True Crime, out this May.

AARP Travel Special: A Taste of America
ATM takes readers on a cross-country culinary journey with renowned chefs whose signature dishes are rooted in regional traditions and personal histories. From Deborah Jones, carrying on her father’s legacy of hickory-smoked burnt ends in Kansas City, to Marcus Samuelsson, whose iconic fried chicken captures the spirit of Harlem, the package highlights how food tells the story of place and community. Chefs including Tal Ronnen in Las Vegas and the team behind Chicago’s Mr. Beef also share insider tips to help travelers find the most authentic—and memorable—meals on the road.