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We’re finally down to the wire. Who will be named the big winners at Monday’s Primetime Emmy Awards?

For starters, Mariska Hargitay has already won a pair of statues this year as she strolls into into the show as first-time host. More recently, Variety has gathered additional intel on how things will kick off on September 14.

Given that her favorite basketball team won the NBA Finals earlier this year, it’s now expected that New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson — who also happens to be Hargitay’s buddy — will appear via a pre-tape at the start of the telecast, according to the magazine.

The NBA champion, 30, will reportedly appear at the very start of the show as part of a pre-taped number. Hargitay will then continue that performance live on stage, with dancers and other performers. That will then lead to Hargitay’s opening host monologue.

Meanwhile, the Law & Order: Special Victims Unit star, 62, told Variety last month that Brunson is “definitely” getting a role on her long-running series.

“He’s kind of magnificent that way. He is just open and ready,” Hargitay said at the time. “I don’t think there is much Jalen can’t do.”

Additionally, Variety learned on Sunday, September 13 that Reba McEntire is set to perform a Dolly Parton song in honor of the late icon.

Last week, the beloved TV actress opened up about how Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce‘s wedding may have been the highlight of her summer.

“I am still floating from that wedding,” Hargitay told Jimmy Kimmel in an interview on Wednesday, September 9 when asked about the July Fourth weekend nuptials. “It was so spectacular and so intimate.”

The SVU icon went on to explain that she was “blown away” in regards to how close-knit the ceremony felt since there were so many people in attendance. Find out more here.

Today’s NYT Wordle answer is great for cleaning produce or for getting the suds off your car.

But the day just isn’t complete until I’ve solved all of the free word games from the New York Times, including Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Strands, and Mini Crossword. If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1913 ahead.

Let’s start with a few hints.

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There are two vowels in today’s five-letter word.

Today’s Wordle begins with a consonant.

There are no double letters in today’s Wordle.

A hint for today’s Wordle: ____ and repeat.

OK, that’s it for hints—I don’t want to totally give it away before revealing the answer!

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

We’ll have the answer below this friendly reminder of how to play the game.

SPOILERS BELOW—do not scroll any further if you don’t want the answer revealed.

The New York Times

Today’s Wordle answer on Monday, September 14, 2026, is RINSE.

-If you missed it, catch up with the answer to yesterday’s Wordle.

Related: Every 5 Letter Word Wordle Hasn’t Used Yet (Updated Daily)

Steve Martin’s 1987 comedy movie Planes, Trains, and Automobiles left a lasting mark on cinematic history with its unforgettable characters and timeless humor, earning recognition as one of the best movies of the 1980s.

Thirty-nine years after its release, the John Hughes-directed movie continues to receive recognition, earning spots on various lists of the best and most iconic films.

Among these was a ranking from Rotten Tomatoes, which named 185 Favorite ’80s Movies.

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles ranked No. 41 with a 93 percent Tomatometer score, which shows the percentage of critics who gave the movie positive reviews.

Moreover, the enduring charm of the comedy film earned it a spot on IndieWire’s 20 Best Thanksgiving Movies, where it took the No. 2 spot.

Paramount/Getty Images

Starring Steve Martin and John Candy as the lead duo, Planes, Trains, and Automobiles centers on the journey of Neal Page (Martin), a wealthy, high-strung marketing executive who is desperate to get home to celebrate Thanksgiving with his family in Chicago.

The trip turns into a holiday travel nightmare after the boisterous, talkative yet optimistic salesman Del Griffith (Candy) becomes his accidental travel buddy.

Because of the unpredictable weather, the mismatched duo had to find every available transportation option to get to their destination, transforming a three-day journey into an absolute disaster.

Despite a modest performance at the box office, with a global gross of $49.5 million against a production budget of roughly $15 million, Planes, Trains, and Automobiles achieved its holiday classic status and eventually became a cultural phenomenon.

Besides the undeniable chemistry between Steve Martin and John Candy, viewers were drawn to the perfect balance between the laugh-out-loud slapstick and the emotional depth and relatability of the film, which was based on the director’s personal experience.

Like Neal Page, Hughes worked in advertising and experienced a horrific real-life travel nightmare after flying from Chicago to New York for a morning presentation before attempting to return to Chicago by 5 p.m. the same day.

Unfortunately, the weather was so bad that his flight out of LaGuardia Airport was canceled and he was rerouted to Des Moines before being diverted to Denver, then Phoenix, resulting in a five-day journey back to Chicago.

“I finally got a flight that went to Des Moines, but Des Moines was snowed in, so we diverted to Denver,” he said in an interview, adding, “From Denver, I couldn’t get back to Chicago, so I stayed on the plane and took it to Phoenix. I told my boss, ‘Well, Phoenix is warmer.’ When all was said and done, it took me five days to get back to Chicago from New York.”

That chaotic trip ultimately inspired a beloved comedy that generations have continued to enjoy decades after its release.

Related: 1990 Liam Neeson Film Ranked Among ‘Greatest Superhero Movies’ That Are Underrated

Kelly Clarkson has covered her fair share of beloved songs over the years, but her take on one Eagles classic had fans hearing the rock classic in a whole new way.

The singer put her own spin on “Heartache Tonight” during a 2022 “Kellyoke” performance on The Kelly Clarkson Show, lending her powerful vocals to the band’s 1979 hit.

Originally released in 1979 as the lead single from the Eagles 1979 album The Long Run, “Heartache Tonight” quickly became a major success for the band, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in November of that year. The song was the band’s fifth and final song to ever reach No. 1 on the all-genre singles chart, following their other chart-toppers, “Best of My Love,” “One of These Nights,” “New Kid in Town” and “Hotel California.”

More than four decades after its release, Clarkson brought “Heartache Tonight” back into the spotlight with her “Kellyoke” rendition in February 2022. Her version showcased the soaring vocals that have helped her become known as the queen of covers, while giving fans a chance to hear the familiar Eagles classic in her unmistakable style.

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And “Heartache Tonight” wouldn’t be the only song from the Eagles catalog to get “Clarksoned,” as the powerhouse songstress also took on the group’s beloved track “Desperado” in 2023.

Both “Desperado” and “Heartache Tonight” have been ranked as some of the best songs from the Eagles discography, according to multiple music magazines. Rolling Stone ranked “Heartache Tonight” at No. 10 on a 2019 roundup of the Eagles’ best songs, while “Desperado” was placed at No. 3.

Billboard also included both tracks on a 2023 ranking of the Top 15 Eagles tracks, with “Heartache Tonight” placing at No. 11, and “Desperado” at No. 2.

Related: 1973 Rock Classic, Reimagined by Alan Jackson, Is Considered One of the ‘Best Eagles Songs’

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Some jewelry just looks like it belongs on the set of an old movie — like something Elizabeth Taylor might’ve worn in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Think elegant, but still eye-catching, with enough sparkle to dress up even the simplest of outfits. This type of timeless style can be hard to come by at an affordable price. However, we found a pair of dazzling gemstone earrings with an heirloom-inspired design that would’ve fit right in during Hollywood’s gilded era. 

Normally $152, the Gem Treasures 18-Karat Vermeil Garnet and White Topaz Earrings are currently discounted by over 40% at ShopHQ, dropping the price to $90. The combination of red garnets and white topaz delivers polished, old-Hollywood sparkle, but they also offer just enough festive contrast to carry your look from fall gatherings through the holiday season.

Courtesy of ShopHQ

Each earring measures just over 1 inch long with five dainty octagonal stones. So even though they’ll add plenty of glam to your look, they’re not overwhelming to wear. The vermeil base is made from sterling silver coated in a thick layer of 18-karat yellow gold, adding timeless shine and durability to the design.

The garnet gemstones are a deep red color that verges on maroon, which could work as an accent to fall attire or to dress up your Thanksgiving outfit. However, the alternating white topaz and garnet stones have an appearance that’s similar to a candy cane, making these earrings a fabulous way to add some holiday flair to any outfit through Christmastime.

Speaking of the holiday season, it’s not too early to start thinking ahead about gifts. At under $100, these earrings are a fantastic choice if you’re looking to snag some luxurious jewelry for a loved one without overspending. They’d also make a great anniversary or birthday present.

For a limited time, ShopHQ is offering free shipping on orders over $50 with the code SHIP50. These earrings qualify for the discount, but you’ll need to add the code at checkout to secure free shipping. 

• Gem Treasures 18-Karat Vermeil Garnet and Zircon Charm Earrings, $125 (were $80) at ShopHQ
• Gem Treasures Sterling Silver White Topaz Graduated Inside-Out Hoop Earrings, $100 (were $167) at ShopHQ
• Gem Treasures White Topaz and Zircon Heart Dangle Earrings, $85 (were $135) at ShopHQ

Related: Bring Quiet Luxury to Your Daily Jewelry Rotation With Delicate Under-$50 Gemstone Earrings

Bring a touch of classic glamor to any outfit with the Gem Treasures 18-Karat Vermeil Garnet and White Topaz Earrings. Head to ShopHQ and snag them now while they’re 40% off before this clearance deal is gone for good!

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.

Ella Langley brought a little extra West Virginia spirit to her sold-out Dandelion tour on Saturday, Sept. 12, when she performed at the Charleston Coliseum in Charleston, West Virginia. 

During the show, the country music superstar, 27, surprised fans with an acoustic rendition of John Denver’s 1971 country classic, “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” The song has a special connection to the state. In 2014, it was designated as one of West Virginia’s four official state songs. 

RELATED: ‘90s Bluegrass Icon Alison Krauss Cancels 2026 Tour With Union Station to Prioritize Health

As Langley began the familiar tune on acoustic guitar, the Charleston crowd quickly joined in, turning the performance into a massive sing-along. Fan-shot videos from the concert have since surfaced online, capturing the crowd singing along with Langley as she performed the beloved classic. 

#westvirginia #charleston #charlestonwv #elllalangley #dandeliontour @Ella Langley

“Actually one of the best things to ever happen in WV,” one person commented on one video shared on TikTok, while a second follower wrote, “She knows how to get to our hearts in WV.” 

“The best,” a third fan simply added. 

The moment was particularly fitting given the song’s status in West Virginia. Written by Bill Danoff, Taffy Nivert, and Denver, “Take Me Home, Country Roads” was released as a single on April 12, 1971. The song became one of Denver’s signature recordings, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in August 1971, where it was kept from the top spot by the Bee Gees’ “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart.”

Although it never reached No. 1 on the Hot 100, “Take Me Home, Country Roads” has become a beloved song in Denver’s catalog and one of the most recognizable. It was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998 and was selected for preservation in the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry in 2023. Among other highlights, “Take Me Home, Country Roads” was ranked at No. 94 on Rolling Stone’s top 200 list of “Greatest Country Songs of All Time.”  

RELATED: 2007 Career-Defining Hit, Inspired by a Reba McEntire Song, Is Still a Powerful Masterpiece 19 Years Later

Langley’s Charleston performance came during the newly extended leg of her Dandelion Tour, which added 21 dates to her 2026 schedule. Next stops take place on Sept. 17 at SJB Pavilion in Oxford, Mississippi, and Sept. 18 at Akins Ford Arena in Athens, Georgia. 

For more information on Langley’s upcoming shows, visit her official website.

Related: 1984 Country Classic, Recorded by Garth Brooks, Reimagined by Lainey Wilson at College GameDay

Nurse influencer Jen Hamilton shared a life update three months after announcing her divorce from husband Brian Hamilton.

“3 months ago…” Jen wrote over a clip of herself crying following her split from Brian after 15 years together. “It didn’t happen TO you. It happened FOR you,” she added over a current video of herself looking happy and healthy.

“Leave him,” she captioned the Sunday, September 13, Instagram post, adding a red heart emoji.

The labor and delivery nurse first hinted at a divorce in June when she shared a video of herself crying.

“Day 1: absolutely devastated. Please don’t try to reach out to anybody on my behalf. That would make everything so much worse for me. Please just let me grieve. My heart is absolutely shattered,” she shared at the time.

Hamilton added, “He broke my heart but I still love him with all the pieces 💔”

She later exposed Brian’s “double life,” explaining that she found out about her husband’s secret after they signed legal separation papers.

“What has come out since has caused me to deal with this as a death,” she shared. “That’s what it feels like in my soul, because all the memories, all the tender moments—poof. I do not know this person. Truly.”

The New York Times bestselling author was the breadwinner throughout their marriage, explaining that she wanted to “take stress off of him.”

“While I was at the hospital, taking care of people, he found the time to have a whole other life,” she laughed. “As someone who has never even passionately kissed anyone else in my entire life, this has broken me beyond comprehension. It was sacred to me.”

Jen and Brian met while working as counselors at a summer camp for terminally and chronically ill children in North Carolina. They tied the knot after Jen became pregnant with the couple’s first child in August 2012.

Plastic is literally everywhere. If you tried to go a day avoiding it, you probably wouldn’t get past one hour, especially if you wear contacts or eyeglasses. But we’re not just interacting with plastic; it’s ending up inside our bodies.

According to a 2025 review published in Cureus, microplastics (tiny plastic particles ranging in size from 1 micrometer to 5 millimeters) can be found in human blood, placental tissue and gastrointestinal samples. That’s pretty alarming.

Related: The Popular Cooking Method Oncologists Are Begging People To Limit

It’s clear that teeny tiny bits of plastic are ending up inside the human body, but what’s less clear is whether or not this is actually harmful, including whether it can increase the risk of cancer. 

Perhaps the most questions surrounding microplastics and health center around what’s used in the kitchen. After all, what we cook with and use to eat is coming into contact with what we’re putting in our mouths. 

The fears around microplastics have many people throwing out their plastic cutting boards. Is this a smart choice or an outsized reaction based on unproven fears? We talked to two oncologists as well as the leading independent expert on microplastics to find out. 

Related: Oncologists Say This Kitchen Staple May Be Riskier Than You Think

When using a plastic cutting board, no one certainly intends to consume parts of the cutting board itself; just what you’re chopping up. However, Dr. Timothy Byun, MD, a hematologist and medical oncologist with Providence St. Joseph Hospital in Orange County, California, explains that using a plastic cutting board could potentially lead to unknowingly ingesting microplastics. “Small plastic particles may be shed when using a plastic cutting board with a knife,” he tells Parade.

Dr. James McCloskey, MD, the chief of the Leukemia Division at John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, agrees. “The repeated mechanical abrasion from a knife’s blade scrapes and dislodges tiny particles from the board’s surface, which then mix with the food you are preparing,” he says. 

In fact, according to Dr. McCloskey, microplastic consumption from plastic cutting boards has been scientifically studied. A 2023 study published in Environmental Science & Technology shows that using plastic cutting boards does lead to microplastic consumption. In a 2025 study published in Environmental Health Perspectives, researchers used either plastic or wooden cutting boards to prepare food for mice. At the end of the 12-week experiment, the mice fed food prepared on the plastic cutting boards had higher levels of microplastics in their blood and colon than the mice that ate food prepared on the wooden cutting boards.  

Related: Over 60? This Popular Cooking Method Could Be Quietly Raising Your Cancer Risk

“The quantity of particles released depends on factors like your cutting style, the type of plastic and the hardness of the food being chopped. These dislodged microplastics are then ingested with your meal, and while the full long-term health effects are still under investigation, potential risks include inflammation and disruption of the gut microbiome,” Dr. McCloskey says, as to how much plastic from cutting boards ends up in food and its potential harm. 

As the studies showed, if you’re using a plastic cutting board, there’s likely tiny bits of plastic making their way into your body. The big question is: How dangerous is it? Dr. Chris DeArmitt, PhD, is the founder and president of the Plastic Research Council and has written two books on microplastics. He’s reviewed more than 1,500 studies on microplastics that have been verified and endorsed by professors and toxicologists worldwide. How does he feel about plastic cutting boards?

While microplastics from cutting boards may end up in our bodies, Dr. DeArmitt emphasizes that this hasn’t been proven to negatively impact human health. “There has never been any study showing a health effect from microplastic using real doses. Nor is there any evidence that there is plastic in our livers. Lifetime exposure is 0.015 grams over 70 years, and even that amount passes right through us,” he says.

Dr. DeArmitt highlights a 2022 study published in Global Environmental Change that states that despite media coverage on the dangers of microplastics, scientific evidence that it’s actually harmful to health is lacking. “Scientists compared media coverage of microplastics to what science shows and found that 93% of media articles claim there’s a threat when the majority of scientific studies show the opposite,” he tells Parade.

Both oncologists, Dr. Byun and Dr. McCloskey, add to this, saying that there is no direct evidence that microplastics cause cancer. Despite this, the evidence of plastic in the body is still alarming.

“These tiny plastic particles, which are widespread in the environment and have been found in various human organs and even cancerous tumors, can induce chronic inflammation, a known risk factor for cancer. Additionally, studies in cells and animals indicate that microplastics can cause DNA damage and oxidative stress, both of which are processes that can promote cancer growth,” Dr. McCloskey says, adding that microplastics can also act as carriers for other environmental toxins, transporting them into the body, which is also concerning.

The bottom line is this: Currently, there is no evidence that microplastics cause cancer. The plastic’s presence in the body still has some oncologists concerned, but you don’t need to throw away your plastic cutting boards yet—just consider replacing them with wooden ones when the time comes.

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Maybe all of this has you freaked out enough to want to minimize your exposure to plastic in the kitchen—just to be safe. Instead of plastic cutting boards, both Dr. Byun and Dr. McCloskey recommend using wood, bamboo, metal or rubber cutting boards.

While you’re reconsidering your plastic cutting boards, both oncologists recommend avoiding using plastic spatulas (which can melt when exposed to heat) and microwaving plastic food containers if you want to cut down on your plastic exposure in the kitchen. And certainly it’s better to use silverware instead of plasticware too.

“Filtering your tap water, preferably with a reverse osmosis system, can also significantly reduce ingestion, as can choosing loose-leaf tea over plastic tea bags. In your diet, prioritize fresh, whole foods over highly processed options that come in plastic packaging and be mindful of certain seafood like shellfish, which can accumulate microplastics,” Dr. McCloskey says, giving some other ways to minimize plastic exposure in the kitchen.

It’s important to be realistic. Plastic is everywhere in our environment and not coming into contact with it isn’t possible. So far, there is no clear scientific evidence that this exposure is harmful. But if it still has you freaked out, minimizing plastic use in the kitchen is a great place to start. Besides, wooden cutting boards look nicer anyway.

Up Next:

Related: ‘I’m an Oncologist—This Is the Cooking Oil I Always Choose’

• Ririe, A. K., Fatema, N., Dina, T. J., et al. (2025). Impact of Microplastic Exposure on Human Health: A Systematic Review of Mechanisms, Biomarkers, and Clinical Outcomes. Cureus. 17(12):e100295.
• Dr. Timothy Byun, MD, hematologist and medical oncologist with Providence St. Joseph Hospital in Orange County, California.
• Dr. James McCloskey, MD, chief of the Leukemia Division at John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center.
• Yadav, H., Khan, R. H., Quadir, M., et al. (2023). Cutting Boards: An Overlooked Source of Microplastics in Human Food? Environmental Science & Technology. 57(22):8225-8235. 
• Gan, H. J., Chen, S., Yao, K., et al. (2025). Stimulated Microplastic Release from Cutting Boards and Evaluation of Intestinal Inflammation and Gut Microbiota in Mice. Environmental Health Perspectives. 133(3-4):047004.
• Dr. Chris DeArmitt, PhD, chemist and founder and president of the Plastic Research Council.
• Kramm, J., Steinhoff, S., Werschmӧller, S., et al. (2022). Explaining risk perception of microplastics: Results from a representative survey in Germany. Global Environmental Change. doi.org/10.1016/j.gloenvcha.2022.102485.

Sandra Bullock had to learn pretty quickly which Hollywood opportunities were worth walking away from.

The 62-year-old actress reflected on her early career during a conversation with longtime friend Jennifer Aniston for Interview magazine, revealing some of what she encountered while trying to find work in New York.

“I was in New York, I was a waitress, I was auditioning for every pervert that existed, asking me to drop my pants,” Bullock recalled in the conversation, which initially happened in June but wasn’t shared until September 8. “Nope, not the role for me,” she thought.

At the time, Bullock said she was simply trying to become an established working actress and worried, like many performers, that another opportunity might not come along. “I was working my way up,” she explained. “Every working actor thinks you will never work again so you just take what you can get and make the most of it.”

Bullock eventually broke through in a big way, starring opposite Keanu Reeves in 1994’s Speed. She went on to become particularly well known for comedies and romantic comedies, including While You Were Sleeping, Miss Congeniality, Two Weeks Notice, and The Proposal.

READ MORE: Tom Cruise’s Upcoming Movie ‘Digger’ Has the Internet Convinced It’s Hiding a Major Secret

Bullock decided it was time to prove she could do something different. She told Aniston the only truly “intentional” career move she remembers making was stepping away from romantic comedies because she was “getting so much sh*t for them.” That decision helped lead her to the 2004 drama Crash. “It was a genius film. I wanted to start flexing other muscles,” Bullock explained.

Bullock later took on acclaimed dramatic roles in movies including The Blind Side, which earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress, and Gravity.

These days, Bullock is back into comedy. When Aniston noted how much audiences miss the rom-coms of the ’90s, Bullock agreed that she wants to return to the genre. “Some people want to bring sexy back. We’re going to bring the funny back,” she joked.

Bullock is already back on the big screen after a four-year break with Practical Magic 2, reuniting with Nicole Kidman nearly three decades after the original.

On this day in 1991, The Commitments opened in U.S. theaters.

The music film follows an ambitious young fan from working-class Dublin who assembles an unlikely group of local misfits and sets out to create a sensational soul band. Despite a modest initial release, the film quickly earned international acclaim, including an Oscar nomination for Best Film Editing, while its music became a phenomenon in its own right.

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The story behind the film is just as compelling. Director Alan Parker deliberately pursued a non-star ensemble, auditioning thousands of hopefuls and ultimately casting largely unknown performers and musicians. Of the film’s 12 principal roles, only two went to professional actors.

But Parker wasn’t looking for a 16-year-old singer to become the voice of the group. Then, almost by accident, he found one.

Andrew Strong was the 16-year-old son of Rob Strong, a singer Parker had brought in to help with rehearsals. When Rob came down with laryngitis, he sent his son in his place. Parker heard Andrew sing, and the teenager landed the role of Deco Cuffe.

“Robert Arkins auditioned for the roles of manager Jimmy Rabbitte and singer Deco Cuffe,” Parker later told The Guardian. “But when Andrew Strong came in quite late, he nailed the Deco part. He had extraordinary confidence for a 16-year-old.”

As Deco, Strong became the swaggering frontman of the fictional soul band at the center of the movie. Parker deliberately avoided the usual lip-syncing approach, using multiple cameras to capture the cast’s live musical performances.

Roger Ebert was particularly impressed. In his review, he called Strong the “real star of the music,” praising the teenager as a natural talent whose voice gave the film’s music its driving energy.

And Strong wasn’t merely pretending to be the band’s singer. The 16-year-old really could sing.

His performances were so commanding that Stereophile called him one of the most impressive young soul singers the critic had seen in years, singling out “Try a Little Tenderness” as the soundtrack’s strongest cut.

Strong’s gritty rendition of “Try a Little Tenderness,” the song Otis Redding famously transformed into a soul standard, builds from a restrained opening into an explosive finale. By the time Strong unleashes the song’s climactic vocals, the fictional band feels completely real, and the scene becomes one of the movie’s defining musical moments.

Released Aug. 13, just weeks before the film’s U.S. debut, The Commitments soundtrack became a phenomenon in its own right. It climbed to No. 8 on the Billboard 200, topped the charts in Australia and New Zealand, and eventually sold more than 12 million copies worldwide. All on the vocals of a 16-year-old kid.

Related: 1970 Rock Song, Released Just After Lou Reed’s Exit, Became One of Film’s Most Devastating Music Moments

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They might have been the most legendary supergroup of all time…even though they only played together once. Known as The Dirty Mac, the band’s lineup was a classic rock fan’s dream come true: John Lennon, Keith Richards, Eric Clapton, and Mitch Mitchell. It’s hard not to fantasize about what might have been if these guys ever made an album together, but at least we have two songs to remember them by decades later: “Yer Blues,” which first appeared on the Beatles’ White Album, and the improvised “Whole Lotta Yoko” (with Yoko Ono on vocals).

Interestingly enough, most people didn’t get to hear or see either of those Dirty Mac performances for nearly 30 years. That’s because they were filmed for a TV special that never actually aired: The Rolling Stones Rock and Roll Circus.

It all started when Mick Jagger approached director Michael Lindsay-Hogg about filming an elaborate televised promo for the Rolling Stones’ album Beggar’s Banquet, according to Luck and Circumstance: A Coming of Age in Hollywood, New York, and Points Beyond. Lindsay-Hogg came up with the idea for a circus theme, and an assortment of the era’s most talented musicians was recruited to make appearances: Jethro Tull, the Who, Taj Mahal, Marianne Faithfull, and the aforementioned members of The Dirty Mac (plus, of course, the rest of the Rolling Stones).

An approximation of a big top circus setting was built on a British sound stage, and an invited audience had the once-in-a-lifetime experience of watching some of rock history’s biggest stars play…for a very long time.

In fact, the filming process took so much longer than expected that by the time the Rolling Stones took the stage, it was 5 o’clock in the morning and everybody was exhausted. As a result, Jagger was disappointed with his band’s performance and refused to let the special air on TV as planned. (Thankfully, it was finally released on CD and video in 1996.)

While the entire special is absolutely essential viewing, there’s no question that “Yer Blues” is one of the highlights from The Rolling Stones Rock and Roll Circus. Music journalist David Dalton, who attended the filming, called The Dirty Mac’s performance “breathtaking.”

“A simple stage is set up for the Supergroup,” Dalton wrote in the March 19, 1970 issue of Rolling Stone.

“John is wearing his Levi outfit, and Mitch Mitchell looks almost unrecognizable with his straight blond hair,” Dalton continued. “Keith plays a simple bass line, and Eric performs with masterful imperturbability. John looks a little apprehensive, but once they start playing he relaxes, turns his back to the camera occasionally in the classic jamming position. Yoko gets up on the stage, climbs into her black bag, and during the breaks, holds John’s hand. Even while you are watching, it is hard to believe all this is actually happening.”

David Cairns / Getty Images

Dalton went on to say that “Mitch’s drumming is a little brisker and he is more in control of the cymbals, but this is not a jam session, in fact, ‘Yer Blues’ is almost identical to the album track.”

“Why is Eric following the record so closely? It is a strange paradox, but simply the presence of all these magicians together is completely overwhelming. What more can you say?” Dalton asked, adding, “But the effect of ‘Yer Blues’ live is very different to hearing it on the record. To begin with it is obvious that John means every word of this song. He has used the form because the blues is the ultimate expression of a down trip. ‘Even hate my rock and roll’ screams at you like a nightmare.”

It seems Lennon was channeling the feeling of desperation he had when he was writing “Yer Blues” in India.

“The funny thing about the [Maharishi’s] camp was that although it was very beautiful and I was meditating about eight hours a day, I was writing the most miserable songs on earth. In ‘Yer Blues,’ when I wrote, ‘I’m so lonely I want to die,’ I’m not kidding. That’s how I felt,” Lennon explained in The Beatles Anthology.

According to Dalton, during the rehearsal for The Rolling Stones Rock and Roll Circus, Lennon, Jagger and Clapton played “Peggy Sue” together, with Lennon also belting out a “wry” version of “It’s Now or Never.” The audience, Dalton recalled, was “totally awestruck” and didn’t “move or talk.”

Somehow, those lucky audience members must have known they were watching history being made.

Related: 1963 Rock Song, Written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney as a ‘Throwaway,’ Became the Rolling Stones’ 1st Top 20 Hit

In 1970, one of the era’s most powerful musical rallying cries was wrapping up a three-week run at No. 1, but the song almost had a very different voice behind it.

Edwin Starr’s recording of “War” spent three weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100 in August and September 1970. Written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, the fiery anti-war song became Starr’s signature recording and eventually earned a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame.

But Starr wasn’t the first Motown star to record it.

The Temptations originally recorded “War” for their 1970 album Psychedelic Shack, with Paul Williams and Dennis Edwards handling lead vocals. The song’s blunt anti-Vietnam War message struck a nerve, and fans began urging Motown to release it as a single.

Motown balked.

The label was reportedly concerned that releasing such a politically charged song as a Temptations single could alienate some of the hugely successful group’s fans. Instead, Whitfield was allowed to record a new version with another artist.

Starr volunteered.

His recording was considerably more explosive, pairing Starr’s forceful vocal with electric guitar, horns and a hard-driving rhythm. Released in June 1970, it took off, ultimately becoming Starr’s only No. 1 hit. It was wrapping up its three-week run at No. 1 56 years ago today.

“War” didn’t disappear with the Vietnam era.

Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band began performing the song during the final dates of the Born in the U.S.A. Tour in 1985. A live recording was released as a single the following year and climbed to No. 8 on the Hot 100.

More than four decades later, Springsteen reached for it again.

On March 31, 2026, Springsteen opened the first show of his Land of Hope & Dreams American Tour with “War,” making the 56-year-old protest song the opening statement of a politically charged set that concluded with Bob Dylan’s “Chimes of Freedom.”

A song Motown once considered too risky to release as a single by one of its biggest groups had proved remarkably difficult to silence.

Today’s NYT Mini Crossword puzzle covers various topics like popular Broadway shows, facts about elephants, Alfred Hitchcock’s work, Texas geography and different types of wine.

Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can’t forget about the NYT’s The Mini Crossword, too!

Although the NYT is known for “The Crossword,” a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.

So, if you’re working on today’s Mini Crossword on Monday, September 14, and need some help (I’ve been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both “Across” and “Down” words, followed by “Across Answers” and “Down Answers,” so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!

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Here are additional clues for each of the words in today’s Mini Crossword.

1 Across: Channel for “Survivor” and “Big Brother” — HINT: Ends with the letter “S”

4 Across: Dessert wine — HINT: Starts with the letter “P”

5 Across: Alfred Hitchcock famously made one in 40 of his 53 films — HINT: Ends with the letter “O”

6 Across: Like elephants distinguished by their smaller rounded ears — HINT: Ends with the letter “N”

7 Across: “The ___ Horror Show,” 2026 Broadway revival with nine Tony nominations — HINT: Starts with the letter “R”

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

1 Down: Word before relief, book or strip — HINT: Starts with the letter “C”

2 Down: Snap (off) — HINT: Starts with the letter “B”

3 Down: Cold and unfeeling — HINT: Ends with the letter “Y”

4 Down: El ___, West Texas metropolis — HINT: Starts with the letter “P”

5 Down: Expensive gift for a 16th birthday — HINT: Ends with the letter “R”

Don’t go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today’s Mini Crossword.

1 Across: Channel for “Survivor” and “Big Brother” — CBS

4 Across: Dessert wine — PORT

5 Across: Alfred Hitchcock famously made one in 40 of his 53 films — CAMEO

6 Across: Like elephants distinguished by their smaller rounded ears — ASIAN

7 Across: “The ___ Horror Show,” 2026 Broadway revival with nine Tony nominations — ROCKY

1 Down: Word before relief, book or strip — COMIC

2 Down: Snap (off) — BREAK

3 Down: Cold and unfeeling — STONY

4 Down: El ___, West Texas metropolis — PASO

5 Down: Expensive gift for a 16th birthday — CAR

Related: Fans Say They ‘Believe in Miracles’ as Beloved Whiskey Brand Drops Nostalgic New Flavor

Hayden Panettiere’s on-again, off-again boyfriend Brian Hickerson’s brother, Zach Hickerson, is speaking out after his recent arrest following a bar fight in South Carolina.

Zach was arrested Saturday night after a fight broke out during his night out at Wild Wing Cafe in Greenville with Brian, according to TMZ. The brothers were involved in a physical altercation with other patrons. Though both Hickersons were handcuffed at the scene, only Zach was taken into custody.

“GPD leaked it when my girlfriend died,” an intoxicated Brian reported said, referring to Panettiere’s August 16 death.

Upon his release from jail on Sunday, Zach was asked by paparazzi about the drunken incident. While he remained quiet about the details, Zach explained that he and his brother have been attacked over rumors surrounding the Ice Princess star’s death.

🚨BREAKING / UPDATE: Newly surfaced footage shows Hayden Panettiere’s boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, apparently being detained last night.

​In the video, Hickerson can be heard shouting: “GPD leaked it when my girlfriend died!” referencing the Greenville Police Department, which is… pic.twitter.com/1wbrnwHrsz

“It’s just super frustrating all that we’ve been through and all the rumors that get started and then people believe them and then they attack as a result of the rumors,” he said, in video obtained by TMZ. “That’s what pisses me off.”

Panettiere was found unresponsive inside a Greenville, South Carolina, apartment reportedly belonging to the Hickerson brothers. Despite efforts to resuscitate the actress, Panettiere was pronounced dead at the scene.

Judd Nelson made a rare public appearance on Sept. 8, stepping out in West Hollywood, California.

And the iconic actor, best known for his starring role in “The Breakfast Club,” was unrecognizable, seen in camouflage pants, brown loafers, a brown T-shirt with a plaid shirt and jacket layered over it, as well as sporting a long, gray beard and a longer hairstyle.

Nelson has mainly stayed out of the public eye, having last been seen on his motorcycle in April, according to E! News. Before that, he was spotted celebrating the 40th anniversary of “The Breakfast Club” alongside his co-stars Molly Ringwald, Emilio Estévez, Ally Sheedy and Anthony Michael Hall, with the group having reunited for the first time since the movie’s release at the Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo in April 2025.

Over the years, Nelson has reflected on the impact of the movie, telling PopHorror in 2019 that he was “lucky to have been on such a fast horse.”

 “You always hope a film will have relevance afterwards, years later. That film certainly does. It’s truly a testament to the work of John Hughes,” he added. “He really was the first guy to make movies about young people without implying that they’re less. Just because you’re young, doesn’t mean you’re less anything, except old.”

“I’m very lucky to have been involved in that project, because, years later, it’s still a film that people see and enjoy,” Nelson concluded.

Along with his role in the movie, he was also a member of the infamous Brat Pack, which was a name given to a group of young actors from the 1980s who often appeared together in iconic films. He was joined by Estevez, Ringwald, Sheedy and Hall, as well as Demi Moore, Andrew McCarthy and Rob Lowe. In 2024, former Brat Pack member Andrew McCarthy produced a documentary on the group, but Nelson refused to participate. His other credits include From St. Elmo’s Fire (1984), the Hip (1987), New Jack City (1991), Conflict of Interest (1993), Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back (2001), Billionaire Boys Club (2018), Girl in the Basement (2021), and The Most Dangerous Game (2022). He also did voice work as the character Rodimus Prime in 1986’s The Transformers: The Movie and animated Transformers series throughout the year.

The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is a rite of passage for any Disney adult, with delicious eats, live entertainment and much more. And Walt Disney World’s premier food festival event is back (and better) than ever as it celebrate its 30th anniversary. The festival runs now through Nov. 21 dishing up dozens of inventive drinks and cocktails from over 30 global marketplaces at Epcot. 

For this milestone anniversary, fan favorite dishes return, like Hawaii’s slow-roasted pork slider, alongside new entries and dishes inspired by bites of yesterday. We tapped some of Disney’s top experts to share their festival must eats. 

Here’s the dishes creating an early festival buzz.

Related: The 3 Bites That Will Go Viral at Epcot’s 2026 Food & Wine Fest

An early frontrunner for the top contender (and one of my favorite bites) is from Gyozas of the Galaxy. And many of Disney’s top insiders agree: it was outstanding.

Jacqueline Dole, an Orlando-based theme park journalist, calls the basil pesto chicken dumplings her favorite festival bite. “My favorite dish I’ve tried from this year’s Food & Wine Festival is the Basil Pesto Chicken Dumplings from Gyozas of the Galaxy,” she shared. “This dish is a perfect example of how dumplings can bring flavors from around the world into one neatly folded package. The gyozas were perfectly cooked, the fonduta sauce was creamy, and the confit tomatoes and balsamic drizzle add just the right acidity to cut through the sauce’s richness. And at $5.99, I’m planning to order two portions and call it dinner!” 

And the praise doesn’t end. Shay Spence, content creator and Disney food expert, named it his #1 must eat, noting that the basil pesto tasted so fresh but the best part was the creamy fonduta.

Related: Halloween Horror Nights Best Eats

Morocco’s Tangierine Cafe: Flavors of the Medina has been a standout for years, and its lineup of savory and sweet options is being applauded by Disneyphiles. “The Spiced Flank Steak Hummus Bowl at Tangierine Café was one of our favorite new dishes of the festival,” shares Jeremy of Disney podcast Main Street Magic. “The tender, medium cooked flank steak pairs perfectly with creamy hummus, harissa yogurt, roasted peppers, fresh halved tomatoes, and warm, stone-fired pita. It’s loaded with Mediterranean spices, but it is not spicy, and it creates layers of flavor that are fresh and light. Each component stands out on its own, yet somehow also all comes together in the perfect bite! At $7.29, it’s also one of the better values we found at the festival.”

We’re sticking around Morocco for this next contender, which I believe is the single best bite I’ve ever had at Epcot (a lofty statement, I know). 

“One of the best cookies we’ve ever had in Disney World,” declared The Main St Dish Podcast of Morocco’s chocolate pistachio cookie. This twist on the Dubai chocolate trend was gluttony on a plate. The soft, chocolate-y cookie was filled with the most decadent pistachio filling. This is the dish I’ll get again and again throughout the festival (And sorry, I’m not sharing.)

Germany’s Sommerfest is known for serving year-round one of Disney World’s very best desserts, pretzel bread pudding. For the festival, it’s pouring a caffeine-loaded twist on the sweet treat. And the cinnamon pretzel cold brew is being praised as one of Joffrey’s best inventions yet.

“It was the perfect balance of cinnamon, vanilla and caramel all topped with a delicious cold foam and salty pretzel pieces. As a certified Joffrey’s hater, this is a must try,” Disney dining expert Kristen Wright @WrightDownMainstreet shared in an Instagram video.

And MagicallyMyah agrees, naming it to her list of top 5 festival grand slams.

The La Poutinerie, a brand new World Showcase dining venue, serves flavorful specialty versions of Canada’s favorite export: poutine. And the Bo Ssam Pork Poutine is officially an instant foodie favorite. Named by Mammoth Club as one of their top 5 new eats to try, the dish combines french fries with cheese curds, tender Bo ssam pork, gochujang gravy, kimchi pickles, aioli and sesame seeds. Bursting with flavor, the only drawback to this is the portion size. It’s huge. And so, this might be a skip if you plan to snack around.

Related: The Powerful Reason Magic Kingdom’s Villains Land Is Disney’s Ultimate Nostalgic Return To Its Roots

Related: The 3 Bites That Will Go Viral at Epcot’s 2026 Food & Wine Fest

In addition to his cherished comedy specials and Madagascar voice work, Chris Rock has dabbled behind the lens as film director.

His star-studded Top Five movie was a big hit back in 2014, and Misty Green just had what Variety calls a “triumphant” premiere at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival.

On Sunday, the 61-year-old Emmy winner spoke at a panel following his acclaimed new feature’s debut — and fans who know of Scott Rudin‘s past controversies tied to abuse allegations may have been surprised to hear Rock praise the infamous producer while discussing their past work together.

“Scott produced [Top Five], and he really pushed me in a way. I know people have whatever stories about Scott, [but] I need hard coaching,” Rock said at Sunday’s panel, per Variety.

The Rustin star continued, “Everybody doesn’t respond to a hug, you know what I mean? I got two daughters. One, you can smile her into excellence. The other one you gotta be like, ‘Hey, what the f–k are we doing?’… Scott really pushed me in a way I hadn’t been pushed in a long time, and it was great. I learned to not settle so for anything… especially when it comes to getting talent. [To] pursue the best of the best of the best for everything — in front of the camera, behind the camera. No compromise.”

Earlier this month, Rock said he’s ready to bring back one of the most beloved animated films from the 2000s — hoping to return as Marty the Zebra in another Madagascar movie. He spoke about the franchise in a recent interview with Variety.

“Everybody is really good. It’s probably the biggest movie I’ve ever been in,” he said. “You know, we did three of them. I pray to God we do one more in a world where they’re rebooting everything.”

If there’s one thing Aldi knows how to do, it’s making a kitchen refresh feel surprisingly affordable. The grocer’s rotating seasonal finds have a knack for turning everyday essentials into something a little more fun, whether that means festive kitchen towels, cheerful countertop accessories or other cutesy seasonal finds. And with fall being right around the corner, Aldi is giving dish duty an autumn makeover, too.

The latest Crofton Dish Drying Mats, which cost just $2.99 each, come in a handful of patterns that are basically begging to hang out on your countertop this season. The mats add a decorative touch to an otherwise not-so-glamorous kitchen chore, because if we have to wait for our dishes to dry, they might as well have a cute place to do it.

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The fall-inspired designs include an autumn leaves print, a navy botanical pattern and pumpkin designs featuring both orange and white pumpkins. But the real wildcard is the “Sweets” print, which leans into the cozy café-and-bakery side of fall. The whimsical pattern features little cakes, tea kettles, lattes, jam, cupcakes and accessories, making it feel less like a basic drying mat and more like a tiny piece of autumn kitchen art.

And if you’re the type who likes your kitchen accessories to match, Aldi has you covered. The seasonal prints also appear on coordinating kitchen helpers, including pot holders and oven mitts, as well as dish scrubbing cloths. So instead of having one lonely fall-themed item sitting beside the sink, you can create an entire kitchen moment.

Related: These $1.50 Fallen Leaves Dinner Plates From Dollar Tree Will Elevate Your Autumn Tablescape

The less-than-$3 price point also makes these an easy way to switch up the vibe without spending much. Pick the classic leaves for a traditional harvest vibe, go for pumpkins if you’re already counting down to Halloween, grab the navy if you want to showcase them for a few extra months or choose the Sweets design if your ideal fall aesthetic involves a warm latte and an unreasonable number of baked goods.

Like many of Aldi’s seasonal finds, though, these pieces are designed to be grabbed while they’re around, so procrastinating until November may not be the winning strategy. In other words, your dishes still have to dry—but at least now they can do it in style.

Related: Sam’s Club’s Adorable Halloween-Inspired Coir Doormat Is a Steal for Just $22

You can always rely on your best friend to nudge you into uncomfortable situations, and Sandra Bullock appeared to do just that to her gal pal Nicole Kidman during a recent interview.

Sitting down for an episode of Jake Shane’s Therapuss podcast, the host asked for advice via a write-in question from a girlfriend who doesn’t like her boyfriend’s music, but doesn’t want to hurt his feelings.

With perfect comedic timing, Bullock playfully shoved the question into Kidman’s lap.

“This is a tricky one. Nicole …?”⁠ the actress said, putting her friend on the spot. Kidman, of course, was famously married to pop-country music star Keith Urban for 19 years.

Recognizing what Bullock had done, everyone in the room erupted in laughter, including Kidman. But she did offer proper advice to the unnamed woman: “Find something you like in it. Give him a compliment. Something! Give him a bone!” she said.

Kidman and Bullock are on a media tour to promote their new movie, the sequel to 1998’s Practical Magic. The new film came out on Sept. 10, nearly 30 years after the original.

Urban and Kidman announced their split a year ago this month, citing “marital difficulties and irreconcilable differences.” The gritty details, if any exist, have never been shared.

The musician and A-list actress finalized their divorce in January of 2026, which included a parenting plan for their teenage daughters, Sunday Rose and Faith Margaret. The outcome reportedly gives Kidman 306 days a year with the girls as their primary caretaker. Urban is parenting every other weekend.

Both child support and alimony were waived since both parties bring in more than $100,000 each month. In an interview with British Vogue in August, Kidman expressed that both parents are committed to their children, first and foremost.

“It’s an extraordinary purpose. Everything else is not important,” she said. “These kids now, that’s what we drop everything for … It’s OK, we’re here. You’ve got people who love you, who are going to hold your hand and get through it.'”

In 1973, Kris Kristofferson and Rita Coolidge released the single “Loving Arms,” an intimate country-pop ballad that was later recorded by the “King of Rock and Roll,” Elvis Presley.

Written by folk singer-songwriter Tom Jans, it was a bittersweet song about someone who leaves a relationship in search of freedom but eventually regrets the decision.

The song was featured on the collaborative album Full Moon by the husband-and-wife duo Kris Kristofferson and Rita Coolidge, which they recorded in 1973 and released that same year.

Moreover, it was also their first joint project that introduced them as a country music power couple.

Don Paulsen/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

The gentle and slow-paced country-pop ballad stood out for its raw emotion, intimate delivery and heartfelt lyrics that captured the song’s central themes.

The pair established themselves as a recording duo, especially among mainstream pop and adult contemporary audiences, after “Loving Arms” peaked at No. 86 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1974.

As the duo continued to make their mark on the charts, Kris Kristofferson and Rita Coolidge also earned a Grammy nomination for Country Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocals in 1975.

As the track grew in popularity, “Loving Arms” caught the attention of fellow musicians and was covered by various artists, with one of the most famous renditions coming from Presley.

The legendary musician gave the song his signature soulful delivery, turning it into a country-rock ballad accompanied by backing vocals from J.D. Sumner & The Stamps.

Presley first recorded the song for his studio album Good Times, which was released in March 1974.

The recording was later reworked with new backing instrumentation for his posthumous 1981 album Guitar Man and released as a single in March 1981.

Getty Images

The reworked version, released as “Lovin’ Arms” with “You Asked Me To” as the B-side, became a commercial success, peaking at No. 8 on Billboard’s Hot Country Singles and No. 47 on the U.K. Singles Chart.

Decades later, following various covers of “Loving Arms,” the track continues to leave a lasting legacy, resonating with listeners across generations.

American Songwriter named the duo’s version among the four “Forgotten Duets From the 1970s” that still sound ethereal.

On Kris Kristofferson’s official YouTube page, commenters mentioned how “Loving Arms” brings nostalgia and praised the duo’s rendition.

“This is the best version of this Loving Arms song so far I’ve listened to, with constant humming towards the end as if trying to put a baby to sleep. Love the melody of the song,” one wrote.

“Her voice is like honey and such a great match with his! Great memories,” a commenter added.

The same goes for Presley’s cover. Not only was his soulful rendition featured in the 2021 movie Godzilla vs. Kong, but users on Reddit have also called it an “underrated” Elvis Presley recording.

Related: 1965 Song, Written by Neil Diamond at Brill Building, Is Still a Generational Hit 61 Years Later