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As much as we love the versatility of a sandal, come fall, there’s not a more practical or convenient shoe choice than a slip-on shoe, especially for things like workdays, super long walks or less-than-smooth terrains like dirt and gravel. They give you the same breathable feel as a sandal, but with a bit more structure and support, making them a smart in-between option during this early-fall season.

Right now, Amazon has a standout pair from Clarks that fits the bill perfectly. The Breeze Roam Slip-Ons are up to 53% off right now on Amazon, bringing the original $70 price tag as low as $33. (Just be sure to click that on-page coupon if you see one.) With a crochet-like look, they’re an easy, wear-on-repeat pick that works across all early fall plans. Shoppers can snag them in either navy, light tan, black, or black and white.

Courtesy of Amazon

The upper of these flat slip-ons features a detailed perforated construction that combines fine pinprick holes with larger petal- and leaf-shaped cutouts, creating a subtle floral pattern that adds both visual texture and airflow. This design not only gives the shoe a more elevated look than a standard slip-on but also adds breathability and airiness in warmer weather. A softly elasticized topline is built in for a secure, flexible fit that moves with your foot without feeling restrictive, while the rounded toe is a classic, versatile shape that works across a range of outfits.

A 25-millimeter platform provides a slight lift without compromising stability, and the layered outsole features slim stripe detailing along the sidewall for a more modern, sneaker-inspired finish. Inside, the shoe is equipped with Clarks’ cushion-soft foam footbed, which is removable and designed to deliver shock absorption and consistent underfoot support. The base is finished with a flexible, textured thermoplastic rubber outsole that enhances traction and durability, making the shoes suitable for a variety of surfaces.

These shoes come in three easy neutral shades that go with just about everything, making the style simple to work into your everyday rotation. Shoppers especially love how easy it is to find the “perfect fit,” with regular-width sizes running in half increments from 5 through 12, plus narrow and wide options available as well. Pricing can vary depending on the size, color, and width you choose, so it’s worth double-checking before adding to cart.

Courtesy of Amazon

Reviewers had plenty to say about these “cushioned” and “stretchy” slip-ons, calling them “comfortable” and “lightweight,” adding that they offer “great support for all-day comfort.” One shopper noted that the fit is “true to size” and added that they “are holding up well” so far with frequent wearing.

Related: Amazon’s Narrow Freestanding Storage Cabinet Is a Genius Fix for Cluttered Bathrooms 

If you’re looking for a shoe that’s equal parts comfortable and versatile, this $33 pair is a must. Grab the Clarks Breeze Roam Slip-Ons now at Amazon while they’re still up to 53% off.

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Bruce Willis had already built a career as an action hero by 1994, but the role that reminded everyone he could actually act almost went to someone else entirely.

Pulp Fiction hit theaters in 1994, and Willis played Butch Coolidge, an aging boxer caught up in mob business after refusing to throw a fight. The part was originally offered to Mickey Rourke, and Matt Dillon reportedly turned it down as well, before director Quentin Tarantino landed on Willis instead. Willis’s own casting came about somewhat by chance, too. Producer Lawrence Bender has said it was actor Harvey Keitel, who’d starred in Tarantino’s first film, Reservoir Dogs, who first introduced Tarantino to Willis.

The film wove together several interconnected crime stories, following hitmen John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson, gangster’s wife Uma Thurman, and Willis’s Butch, all set against Tarantino’s now-signature non-linear structure and rapid-fire dialogue. It was a bold swing for its time, and critics ate it up. Pulp Fiction currently holds a 92% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes, alongside a 96% audience score, cementing it as one of the most acclaimed films of the decade.

The accolades haven’t slowed down since. Collider has called it the greatest crime movie ever made, and Entertainment Weekly once dubbed it the best film released since 1983. It also won the Palme d’Or at Cannes and took home the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay, beating out steep competition that year.

For Willis, the film marked a turning point. After a string of box office misfires like Hudson Hawk and The Bonfire of the Vanities, Pulp Fiction reestablished him as a serious actor, not just an action star, and helped kick off the broader indie film boom of the 1990s. More than three decades later, it’s still the film most likely to come up when people talk about Willis’s best work, action franchises included.

It’s been well over a year since Universal Epic Universe officially opened its towering celestial portals, and the park has thoroughly cemented itself as one of the most breathtaking, ambitious theme park achievements in modern history.

Between stepping into the living video game of Super Nintendo World, soaring across the Isle of Berk in How to Train Your Dragon, exploring the dark depths of Dark Universe, and wandering the dazzling, fountain-filled gardens of Celestial Park, it completely raised the bar for immersive storytelling.

The catch for many travelers, however, has been the price tag. During its inaugural year, standalone tickets to Epic Universe were kept tightly controlled, and bundling all three theme parks together could easily stretch a vacation budget thin.

Now, Universal Orlando Resort is making it significantly easier—and more affordable—to experience the entire resort in one seamless trip.

Universal has officially launched the “Three-Day One Day Per Park Promo Ticket,” offering access across all three of its theme parks starting at $105.43 per day, tax included.

Related: All the Rides at Universal Epic Universe, Ranked

The base version of the promotion grants visitors three full days of park access—giving you one dedicated day each at Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Universal Epic Universe.

For travelers who want more day-to-day flexibility, Universal is also offering a park-to-park upgrade. That option lets you park-hop freely between Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure across two days, while reserving one full dedicated day to take in the sprawling lands and nighttime fountain spectacles of Epic Universe.

All three days of admission must be used within a flexible seven-day window, meaning you don’t have to burn through all three parks back-to-back without a rest day.

Even better for planners looking to bundle, the ticket promotion stacks with existing resort hotel discounts. Guests can take advantage of up to 30% off hotel stays of five nights or longer this winter, or save up to $300 on vacation packages combining multi-night hotel stays with park-to-park admission.

Related: Universal Orlando Unveils a Major Twist for Fall

If you have been waiting for the right moment to pull the trigger on a quick long-weekend trip, the fall season hits the absolute sweet spot for Universal fans.

Central Florida’s stifling midsummer humidity finally starts breaking, making it comfortable to spend entire afternoons wandering Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. With the Hogwarts Express fully operational between both Wizarding World lands, hopping from King’s Cross Station to the foot of Hogwarts Castle remains one of the smoothest park-to-park transit experiences in theme park history.

The calendar also lines up with Orlando’s marquee fall events. Over at Universal Studios Florida, Halloween Horror Nights is in full swing on select evenings, letting thrill-seekers spend daylight hours riding high-speed coasters before diving into world-class haunted houses and scare zones after dark.

Pairing daytime exploration in Epic Universe with an evening of spooky entertainment and nighttime shows across the legacy parks turns a short three-day weekend into a full-scale, bucket-list escape—without the peak summer crowds or peak summer price tags.

Related: I Ate My Way Through Opening Night of Halloween Horror Nights—These 9 Eats Were To Die For

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Few spaces exude as much coziness and warmth as the kitchen. It’s the heart of the home, a space where loved ones gather to enjoy good company and good food. The design choices you make amplify that ambiance, making the room feel even more welcoming. This is why so many have embraced the cottagecore trend in recent years.

If you love the idea of introducing homey, rustic elements to your own kitchen, The Pioneer Woman Daisy Dinnerware Set nails the aesthetic with its pretty floral pattern and delicate scalloped edges. Consisting of 12 pieces, the collection is currently just $30 at Walmart in your choice of beige, blue, or pink.

Courtesy of Walmart

The set includes four dinner plates, four salad plates, and four cereal bowls, each saturated with rich color and etched with white artwork. It has a vintage quality that feels appropriate for any lived-in kitchen, whether your preferences lean timeless and traditional or more overtly farmhouse-influenced.

Each piece is made from melamine, a highly durable yet lightweight material. While it isn’t completely indestructible, it’s generally one of the most break-resistant dishware options available. If you live in a busy household, have children, or simply don’t want to risk damage, this set makes a sensible choice. A customer with arthritis even mentioned that it’s easy for her to carry these dishes due to their reasonable weight.

It fits right into the charming Pioneer Woman sensibility, too — a country-inspired look defined by soft colors, pretty florals, and details that liven up the table without feeling like too much. These pieces from Ree Drummond’s popular home line blend right in, complementing other elements you might find in a cottagecore kitchen like earthy palettes, apron-front sinks, and breezy curtains. Everything comes together in the sweetest way.

The set boasts over 1,000 five-star ratings from shoppers, with many people praising the “fresh and beautiful” design and noting that the dishes are “very substantial.” Another reviewer dubbed them a “cute addition to the kitchen.”

Related: The Pioneer Woman’s ‘Gorgeous’ 12-Piece Scalloped Stoneware Dish Set Adds Heirloom Charm for Just $30

Whether it’s time for a kitchen refresh or you just want to warm up the space with one special detail, The Pioneer Woman Daisy Dinnerware Set is just the right choice for a quick shift in direction. With its down-to-earth vibe and $30 price, it’s an affordable option you’ll use for years. Grab it now at Walmart in the color of your choice!

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Robin Williams had the glorious ability to make us laugh, and it’s what made his death so much sadder. He didn’t need others to write his jokes for him, and directors knew to let him run with anything that came to mind. That was certainly the case when it came to the 1992 movie Aladdin, which still holds a 96% Rotten Tomatoes score.

The iconic Disney flick sits in spot No. 204 on the list of best-ever movies from Rotten Tomatoes. Surprisingly, it doesn’t make it to the list of IMDb’s best movies ever, despite the likes of Inside Out and Toy Story making the list.

Aladdin certainly goes down as one of the best animated Disney movies ever, as well as one of Williams’ best performances. Yet, because of Williams’ performance, it was rejected from even being nominated for Best Original Screenplay at the Academy Awards. Too much had deviated from the original script that it meant it had to be disqualified.

The directors weren’t about to shoehorn Williams into a box, though. They didn’t dictate that he follow storyboards and instead worked the film around his performance, knowing that it was the best way to create something unique and special. In the end, they had 16 hours of footage, with Williams riffing off pop culture and doing celebrity impressions, some of which remained as part of the 90-minute movie.

What’s wild to think of now is that Williams almost didn’t do the movie. He wasn’t interested in it at first, and he definitely didn’t like the idea of his character being turned into a Happy Meal toy. It was thanks to the test animation from Eric Goldberg that he signed on, and while there were promises made, such as not making the Genie the focus of the marketing, Disney backtracked on all. It would lead to a years-long fallout, especially since Williams had agreed to take a significant pay cut to do the movie on the conditions Disney backtracked on.

As the live-action Aladdin came out years later, the original stars Scott Weinger and Linda Larkin looked back in a 2019 interview. They were virtually unknown at the time, and they still have no ego about this movie, attributing the success to the entire team. Larkin explained, “That belongs to the magnitude of the people who worked on it, from the animators like Glenn Keane, Mark Henn and Eric Goldberg, and Alan Menken, Howard Ashman and Tim Rice, who did the music — and of course, Robin Williams as the genie. For me, I just feel lucky to play a small role in this massive production.”

Weinger went on to share his love for the film both then and now, saying, “It was a pleasure happening when I was a kid to enjoy the initial success of the film in real-time as it was being introduced to the world, but I would have to say it’s even more fun now, now that it’s entered the pantheon of classic Disney movies.”

Not only would Aladdin make waves in the movie industry, but it would also make history in the music scene, becoming the first-ever Disney movie song to make it to the Billboard Hot 100. “A Whole New World” would disrupt Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” 14-week stretch in the No. 1 spot. In fact, it wouldn’t be until 2022’s Encanto that another Disney song would hit the charts in such a big way. After 30 years of Aladdin being the one and only, “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” hit No. 1.

Related: 1995 Tom Hanks Movie, With 100% Rotten Tomatoes Score, Ranked Among Best Movies of All Time

Steve Buscemi and his new wife, Karen Ho, look so in love on the red carpet in Venice.

Buscemi, 68, who is known for diverse roles ranging from Reservoir Dogs and Fargo to Billy Madison and Armageddon, recently appeared in Season 2 of the beloved Netflix series Wednesday opposite Jenna Ortega. He played Barry Dort, the new principal of Nevermore Academy. He just appeared in Don’t Say Good Luck, which stars his dear friend Adam Sandler‘s daughter, Sunny. But at the red carpet premiere of Wild Horse Nine at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival, the couple went full Italian glamour and were dressed to the nines. Holding each other’s hands, it’s safe to say the couple is happier than ever.

Stephane Cardinale - Corbis / Getty Images

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It’s Buscemi’s real-life challenges that make his journey so relatable. The actor recently opened up about losing his first wife in 2019 and his decision to remarry last year. In an interview with the New York Times last year, the typically quiet star spoke candidly about the loss of his wife of more than 30 years, filmmaker and artist Jo Andres, who died in 2019 of a rare bowel cancer.

During the interview, Buscemi’s eyes welled up with tears while speaking about his late wife. Buscemi said he still owned the Brooklyn brownstone they lived in, “but it’s not right for me anymore, you know? It’s just — it’s too big.”

The actor also noted that “grief is not linear” and that it can coexist with happy times.

Related: Steve Buscemi Makes Rare Red Carpet Appearance Alongside Wife After Opening up About Finding Love Again

Buscemi has found some of those happy times, too. But instead of sticking with someone in the entertainment industry, Ho doesn’t work in it. She doesn’t even share the same taste as him, with Buscemi noting that “her tastes are totally different from mine in movies,” he told the Times. The couple recently found a new place in Manhattan together.

The piece also noted that Buscemi has served as a guiding light for his co-stars. Ortega told the publication how much of an inspiration he is to her.

“Without trying to be or in any sort of patronizing way, he is a great source of wisdom and advice and life lessons,” she explained.

Steve Buscemi and Karen Ho officially tied the knot in early 2025. They currently reside in Manhattan.

Related: Steve Buscemi Looks So Happy With His New Wife and a Baby Pig on the Red Carpet

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Fall dressing doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when you have a great sweater on hand. A classic knit can instantly pull together jeans, trousers or a favorite skirt, making it one of the easiest pieces to reach for when the weather cools down. For shoppers who love polished, classic styles at approachable prices, we found a stylish pick from Blu Pepper at Nordstrom Rack.

Right now, Nordstrom Rack is selling the Blu Pepper Stripe Polo Sweater for just $35, marked down from $79. The classic knit features bold stripes and a contrasting polo collar that gives it a polished, pulled-together look. With $44 in savings, it’s an easy way to give your fall wardrobe a fresh update without spending a fortune. 

Courtesy of Nordstrom Rack

Made with 65% recycled polyester, this knit sweater has a relaxed silhouette that makes it an easy choice for everyday wear. The dropped shoulders give it a laid-back shape, while the long sleeves provide extra coverage for cooler fall days. A partial button-front closure allows the neckline to be worn open or closed, and ribbed trim at the cuffs and hem gives the sweater a classic finish. 

This is also the kind of sweater that could work with pieces you already have in your closet. Wear it with straight-leg jeans and loafers for a simple weekend outfit, or pair it with wide-leg trousers when you want something a little more dressed up. For a classic autumn combination, style it with a denim skirt and boots. 

Sizes run from small to large, and it comes in three striped color options: red wood, dusty blue and mocha. To care for the knit, Nordstrom Rack recommends hand washing and laying it flat on a clean, dry surface to help preserve its shape. 

• Sorel Revel Mary Jane Loafers, $70 (were $140) at Nordstrom Rack
• Frye and Co Chesnee Harness Booties, $60 (was $130) at Nordstrom Rack
• Madden Girl Ariella Lace-Up Combat Boot, $55 (was $79) at Nordstrom Rack

Related: Hunter’s Classic Rain Boots Keep You ‘Warm and Dry’ on Damp Days, and They’re 43% Off

At 55% off, the Blu Pepper Stripe Polo Sweater at Nordstrom Rack is definitely worth grabbing before the price changes. Be sure to add it to your cart while it’s still in stock and on sale!

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.

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you’re trying to hold onto every last bit of summer, Amazon just marked down the Keen Rose Casual Closed Toe Sandals to $56 in black, down from $120, with the brindle version also marked down at $59. Other colors currently range from $81 up to the full $120 price, depending on the shade and size. They come in sizes 5 to 12, making this a late-summer deal that still gives you plenty of time for beach days, warm-weather trips, and weekends outside.

They have a washable design with a quick-dry lining, an adjustable hook-and-loop ankle strap, and a footbed with built-in arch support. The outsole features a wave grip pattern designed for added traction on wet and slippery ground, while the rubber toe adds extra protection. They’re also water-resistant, machine washable, and weigh 9 ounces per sandal, so they’re a breeze to pack for a trip.

Courtesy of Amazon

These sandals offer the perfect mix of sandal-like breathability and sneaker-like coverage, making them especially handy during the stretch between summer and fall. You can wear them to the beach, lake, or on a warm-weather getaway, but the closed toe gives your feet more coverage than a traditional sandal. They’d also be great for sightseeing or outdoor activities where you want something lightweight without switching to a sneaker, and since the straps and lining dry quickly, you won’t have to worry about walking around in soggy shoes all day if they get wet.

The positive reviews are seemingly endless, with more than 12,000 five-star ratings. One shopper who walked 40,000 steps in them in one day called them “lightweight” and “breathable” with “legit non-slip traction,” adding, “10/10 would trust these shoes with my life, my feet, and my poor vacation planning decisions.” Another called them “the best shoes for traveling,” while others praised their zero break-in time and “super comfortable” design.. 

Related: Clarks’ ‘Supportive’ $10 Sandals Are So Pillow-Soft, They Feel Like ‘Walking on a Cloud’

For context, similar closed-toe sport and water sandals typically cost around $90 to $130, with some styles reaching $150 or more. At $56, this pair is priced well below what you’d normally expect to pay for this type of versatile shoe. It also means you’re saving more than half off the regular $120 price instead of just getting a small end-of-summer discount, which is definitely a win if you’re trying to get the best bang for your buck.

• Sketoe Flip-Flop Sandals, From $10 (were $25) at Amazon
• Alicegana Boho Sandals, From $16 (were $38) at Amazon
• Idifu Flat Sandals, $10 (were $25) at Amazon

Keen has been making outdoor footwear for more than two decades, and with tens of thousands of five-star ratings behind this pair, there’s plenty of shopper feedback to back it up. If you’ve been thinking about snagging a new pair of sandals before warm-weather plans wind down, this is the perfect time to do it. Be sure to get the Keen Rose Casual Closed-Toe Sandals on Amazon now before the price goes back up.

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.

Today’s NYT Connections Sports Edition puzzle deals mostly with college football, with the exception of one category that might remind you of the Big Easy.

Get excited—there’s another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you’re looking for some hints and answers for today’s Connections Sports Edition on Saturday, September 5, 2026, you’ve come to the right place.

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The New York Times

Connections Sports Edition is just like the regular Connections word puzzle, in that it’s a game that resets at 12 a.m. EST each day and has 16 different words listed. It’s up to you to figure out each group of four words that belong to a certain category, with four categories in total.

This new version is sports-specific, however, as a partnership between The New York Times and The Athletic.

As the NYT site instructs, for Connections Sports Edition, you “group sports terms that share a common thread.”

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You’ll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Here are some hints about the four categories to help you figure out the word groupings.

• Yellow: Popular sports institutions.
• Green: College teams in a particular region.
• Blue: Low country pro football players.
• Purple: No costume necessary.

OK, time for a second hint…we’ll give you the actual categories now. Spoilers below!

• Yellow: ACC SCHOOLS
• Green: SEC SCHOOL LOCATIONS
• Blue: LSU ALUMNI IN NFL
• Purple: LIVE COLLEGE FOOTBALL MASCOTS

If you’re looking for the answers, no worries—we’ve got them below. So, don’t scroll any further if you don’t want to see the solutions!

The answers to today’s Connections Sports Edition #712 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

• ACC SCHOOLS: CLEMSON, LOUISVILLE, STANFORD, VIRGINIA
• SEC SCHOOL LOCATIONS: BATON ROUGE, COLUMBIA, NORMAN, STARKVILLE
• LSU ALUMNI IN NFL: BURROW, CHASE, DANIELS, JEFFERSON
• LIVE COLLEGE FOOTBALL MASCOTS: RALPHIE, REVEILLE, SMOKEY, UGA

Don’t worry if you didn’t get them this time—we’ve all been there.

Up next, catch up on the answers to recent Wordle puzzles.

Related: I Recreated the Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars Every ’90s Kid Loved

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If your living room, bedroom, or entryway could use a cozy refresh this fall, Walmart has a new home decor find that’s worth checking out. The Moynesa Floral Area Rug combines a soft, cloud-like feel with a vintage-inspired floral design that will elevate any space, and it’s on sale for nearly 40% off for a limited time. 

Right now, the stunning 5-by-7-foot rug is on sale for as low as $38, down from $62, in the beige color. You can also shop it in 13 other colors, including black, coffee, pink, navy blue, and green, at varying discounts. The rug comes in over a dozen size options as well, ranging from 2 by 3 feet to 9 by 12 feet, making it easy to find an option that best suits your space. 

Courtesy of Walmart

Featuring a gorgeous retro floral pattern, this area rug brings warmth and personality to any room while complementing a variety of decor styles, from farmhouse to French countryside. The charming design adds a cozy touch to practically any room in the house, including living areas, bedrooms, dining rooms, hallways, kitchens, and more. 

Made from 100% faux wool, the rug has a soft, skin-friendly surface that feels soft and comfortable underfoot. Its ultra-thin 0.22-inch low pile also makes it practical for busy households. The short fibers help prevent food crumbs, dirt, and pet hair from accumulating, making it a great option for homes with kids and pets or areas that see plenty of foot traffic.

Related: Walmart’s ‘Pretty’ $16 Sunflower Basket Wreath Is the Sweetest Summer-to-Fall Decor Find

Cleaning is easy, too. For everyday dust and debris, simply vacuum or let a sweeping robot do the work. When the rug needs a deeper clean, it’s machine washable for added convenience. The low-pile construction makes it easy to maintain, and the non-slip rubber backing keeps it securely in place while also protecting your floors from scratches.

This rug is a favorite among Walmart shoppers, with over 1,450 five-star ratings. One shopper called it “beautiful” and “very soft under bare feet,” while others praised the “whimsical” pattern and “playful” scalloped edges. Another buyer called the rug “absolutely stunning,” writing, “it is fantastic, silky-soft, and has beautiful bold colors!”

• Ileading Boho Kitchen Rug Set, From $18 (was $50) at Walmart
• Sixhome Reversible Boho Outdoor Rug, $26 (was $46) at Walmart
• Rugking Front Door Mat, $16 (was $31) at Walmart

Give your home a cozy seasonal refresh with this soft and stylish floral rug. It’s comfortable, easy to maintain, and designed to stand up to everyday life. With the versatile 5-by-7-foot option now priced at under $40, it’s an easy way to add vintage-inspired charm to your space without breaking the bank. Snag one before this limited-time flash deal ends at Walmart. 

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Today’s NYT Strands puzzle might bring out your inner animal.

Move over, Wordle, Connections, Connections Sports Edition, and Mini Crossword—there’s a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times‘ recent game, “Strands,” is becoming increasingly popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.

With daily themes and “spangrams” to discover, this is the latest addictive game to cross off your to-do list before a new one pops up 24 hours later.

We’ll cover exactly how to play Strands, hints for today’s Spangram, and all of the answers for Strands #916 on Saturday, September 5.

The New York Times

According to the New York Times, here’s exactly how to play Strands:

Find theme words to fill the board.

• Theme words stay highlighted in blue when found.
• Drag or tap letters to create words. If tapping, double-tap the last letter to submit.
• Theme words fill the board entirely. No theme words overlap.

Find the “spangram.”

• The spangram describes the puzzle’s theme and touches two opposite sides of the board. It may be two words.
• The spangram highlights in yellow when found.
• An example spangram with corresponding theme words: PEAR, FRUIT, BANANA, APPLE, etc.

Need a hint?

• Find non-theme words to get hints.
• For every three non-theme words you find, you earn a hint.
• Hints show the letters of a theme word. If there is already an active hint on the board, a hint will show that word’s letter order.

If that doesn’t help, here’s a hint for today’s Strands game: In the wild.

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

In today’s puzzle, there are nine theme words to find (including the spangram). Here are the first two letters for each word:

• GA
• HI
• RH
• CH
• RA
• BU
• GA
• PE
• CR (SPANGRAM)

Today’s Spangram is mostly horizontal.

Today’s Spangram answer for today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram, and Answers for Saturday, September 5, 2026, is CRITTER.

• GATOR
• HIPPO
• RHINO
• CHIMP
• RATTLER
• BUDGIE
• GATOR
• PEKE
• SPANGRAM: CRITTER

Related: I Recreated the Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars Every ’90s Kid Loved

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As we age, our skincare and makeup needs and preferences change. For example, those with mature skin usually want something a little lighter and more hydrating when it comes to foundation, rather than those heavy, matte-finish versions that perhaps dominated their makeup bag in their early 20s. If that’s you right now, Ilia, which you can find right at Ulta, has just the option for you.

Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint provides dewy, light-to-medium coverage that combines skincare and makeup into one beautiful product. Available in 30 shades, this skin tint has a number of rockstar ingredients, including hyaluronic acid to plump; niacinamide to refine skin texture; plant-based squalane to help skin hold onto moisture and boost elasticity; and allantoin to reinforce the skin barrier and soothe sensitivity. Plus, it has SPF 40, which is just an added bonus.

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Ulta

Depending on the look you want to achieve with this skin tint, you can either apply it with your fingers for light coverage or opt to use a foundation brush for medium coverage. Do note that it will take around 60 seconds for this foundation to adjust to its true tone upon application due to the SPF, so don’t fret if the shade looks off for a moment!

Related: Ulta Just Dropped a ‘Gorgeous’ New Cool-Toned Neutral Eyeshadow Palette That Is Perfect for Day or Night

Shoppers love this serum skin tint from Ilia, giving it an average rating of 4.4 stars on Ulta.com, with 68 percent of reviewers saying they would recommend it to others. Those with mature skin were particularly happy with this product.

“This is the best foundation I have found. Looks just as fresh at end of the day, gives a nice subtle glow. Easy to blend medium coverage. Definitely a must have for mature skin. Never give a product five stars, but this lives up to claims,” said one fan in a five-star review on Ulta.com.

“Finally, a skin tint that actually covers and leaves skin looking glowing! I absolutely love how this product blends into my medium olive skin (which is so hard to color match) and gives me a nice golden glow while looking natural. I’m of a certain age, and this product works well on mature skin, too,” said another happy shopper in a five-star review on Ulta’s website.

You can pick up one of these skin tints from Ilia at select Ulta stores or from Ulta’s website. It retails for $48.

Related: Ulta Just Dropped a Brand-New Bronzing Serum That Gives Skin an Instant Glow

To solve today’s New York Times Connections puzzle, you’ll need to know things about eyes in the skies, dinner-time sweets, maintaining your balance, and where your brain lives.

There’s nothing quite as exhilarating as the feeling of completing the daily New York Times Wordle, Strands, Mini Crossword and Connections Sports Edition word games in one fell swoop. But sometimes that can be easier said than done. If you need help with today’s Connections puzzle, keep reading.

Spoilers ahead! We’ve warned you. We mean it. Read no further until you really want some clues or you’ve completely given up and want the answers ASAP. Get ready for all of today’s NYT ‘Connections’ hints and answers for #1184 on Saturday, September 5, 2026.

The New York Times

If you’ve been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Saturday’s puzzle, you’re not alone, and these hints should definitely help you out. Plus, I’ll reveal the answers further down.

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You’ll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

1. Find your footing.
2. They make the best songs.
3. Keep it on swivel.
4. Sweet treat.

Related: 300 Trivia Questions and Answers to Jumpstart Your Fun Game Night

Ready for the answers? Scroll below this image (the image that represents your very appreciated patience!).

iStock

1. MOVE UNSTEADILY: SWAY, TODDLE, TOTTER, WOBBLE
2. BIRD ONOMATOPOEIA: COO, GOBBLE, HONK, WARBLE
3. ___HEAD: BOBBLE, HAMMER, JUG, SLEEPY
4. DESSERTS MINUS LAST LETTER: COBBLE, PI, TAR, TORT

How’d you do?

Up Next:

– 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day
– Hints, Clues and Answers to the NYT’s ‘Mini Crossword’ Puzzle

Did You Miss a Few Days? Let’s Catch You Up With Recent Connections Answers

Related: I Recreated the Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars Every ’90s Kid Loved

It’s been nearly 20 years since Journey welcomed Arnel Pineda as their new frontman, and it seems the singer may be hinting at an exit from the group.

This week during a tour stop in Japan, Journey surprised fans by bringing Hugo Valenti on stage. Valenti, best known as the frontman of Hugo – The Ultimate Journey Tribute, was the former lead singer of Open Skyz. After Pineda exited the stage, Valenti led the band in the 1983 song “Faithfully.”

“I wrote this next song in 1982 about the road life we live, how it takes people dedicated, people who are loyal, like you Journey fans out there,” keyboardist Jonathan Cain said before introducing Valenti, Louder reported. “We have a dear friend that’s coming all the way from New Jersey to visit Japan, and I thought we’d have him sing a song for you tonight. So give it up for our friend Hugo Valenti.”

After the show, Valenti’s fellow Hugo band member Adam Holland posted photos from the show on Instagram, and a comment from Pineda has the internet in a stir.

“That’s the band right there,” Pineda said. “Now I can step back..congratulations @journeyofficial 🔥🔥🔥”

Although Pineda hasn’t confirmed if Valenti will be taking his place as Journey’s frontman, Pineda has previously tried to leave the band. In an interview with Rolling Stone, the singer said he tried to quit twice due to “personal problems.”

“I said to [Neal Schon and Cain] I wanted to retire because of my personal problems. No answer,” he said. “Obviously, they don’t want to find another singer.”

If a new singer has been found in Valenti, fans already have mixed thoughts.

“Journey has an incredible legacy,” one user commented on Instagram. “There is nothing wrong with allowing that legacy to end on a high note instead of continuing at any cost.”

“I bet you money Steve [Perry] will love this lineup the best,” another said. “You go Hugo.”

Journey will continue to tour on their Final Frontier Tour through Nov. 28, when they’ll wrap up in San Francisco, California. Check out the post from Holland here.

In 1985, Sade released a song that would forever cement the band as a powerhouse in the quiet storm category. The musicians, often mistaken for solely the lead singer and namesake, Sade Adu, have produced several fusion hits in jazz-pop, R&B, and soul—and 41 years later, “The Sweetest Taboo” is still instantly recognizable.

The timeless track was written by Adu and touring drummer Martin Ditcham, and released as the lead single from Sade’s second studio album, Promise. It begins with the subtle sound of falling rain, and as soon as you hear the lyrics, “There’s a quiet storm…,” you know exactly whose voice is coming through your speakers: The soothing, soulful, legendary Adu.

Telling the story of sharing a deep connection with a partner so good it feels forbidden, both physically and emotionally, the lyrics also express fear over becoming too vulnerable. “If I tell you, if I tell you now / Will you keep on, will you keep on loving me?” the singer asks, before later admitting, “You give me the sweetest taboo / That’s why I’m in love with you (With you).”

While not as well received in the U.K., the song took off in the U.S., reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in March 1986 and remaining in the Top 40 for 13 weeks. It also became the band’s second consecutive No. 1 single on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, following 1984’s “Smooth Operator,” which introduced Adu to the world.

Four decades later, “The Sweetest Taboo” is still a timeless classic. At the time of writing, the fusion song had over 130 million views on YouTube and nearly 246 million Spotify streams.

The band has sold over 75 million records worldwide, with their 1984 debut album, Diamond Life, selling over seven million copies alone. The project featured massive hits like “Smooth Operator” and “Your Love Is King.” Additionally, Sade won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1986.

In 2026, Sade was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Despite massive success, the reclusive, rarely-seen songstress prefers to live life away from the spotlight. According to Hello magazine, she reportedly lives in a cottage near Stroud in south-west England. Though she doesn’t speak to the media much, what she has offered over the years provides everything fans need to know about her true nature.

“I’m not someone who needs a lot of money. You could break into this house and leave after half an hour without finding anything worth stealing,” she told The Times in 2011.

Adu later opened up to British Vogue in 2020, sharing another deep sentiment about daily life with her family: “Like everyone, we’re on a ship of unknown destination, but that’s life … no mutiny yet. There’s always so much to do: there are songs I so want to write, and I’ve rediscovered the joy cooking brings.”

Next, 1978 No. 1 Hit by Legendary ’70s Band Was Just Ranked the ‘Best September Song’ Ever by ‘Billboard’

Today’s NYT Wordle answer is perfect for cold, rainy days, but terrible if you’re trying to bake a cake.

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 #1904 ahead.

Let’s start with a few hints.

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

There are two vowels and one sometimes vowel 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 is: Its name also gives away its consistency.

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 Saturday, September 5, 2026, is SOUPY.

-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)

In 1967, Cream, now considered one of the “best supergroups of all time,” released “Tales of Brave Ulysses,” a track that is widely recognized as one of the band’s most significant and enduring songs.

The all-star trio, formed by Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker, had a relatively short run as a supergroup but delivered several notable songs during their two-year stint as a band.

More than five decades after its release, “Tales of Brave Ulysses” continues to captivate new generations of listeners, cementing its status as one of Cream’s best songs and earning widespread acclaim across various platforms.

In a ranking released by Ultimate Classic Rock, the 1967 track secured No. 7 among the top 10 “best Cream songs,” while Discotech ranked it No. 6.

On Reddit, users called it a “great song” while others shared how the track evokes a strong sense of nostalgia.

“Ahhhh this is probably my favorite Cream song!” one wrote.

“Great song, I remember listening to a podcast where it explained they were given the lyrics to this song; I think it was the guy who designed the album cover,” a commenter added.

“Love the descending pattern on the wah,” a Reddit user said, in reference to the signature wah-wah pedal.

The same goes for another user who commented: “All I hear in my head is the magnificent guitar solo.”

Featured on their sophomore album, Disraeli Gears, the song was written by Clapton, with Australian artist Martin Sharp providing the lyrics. Clapton met Sharp at the legendary Speakeasy Club in London.

“Tales of Brave Ulysses” was inspired by Clapton’s trip to the Greek Islands, hence the reimagined version of the story of Odysseus.

Clapton also mentioned that the song was associated with James Joyce’s acclaimed novel, Ulysses, which was adapted into a 1967 movie of the same name.

“At the time we wrote the song, there was a novel by James Joyce which was made into a film,” the musician told Hit Parader via uDiscover Music. “It was getting a lot of publicity and the whole thing clicked. People were connecting our song with the film.”

Despite not charting as a standalone track, the song was considered an underground FM radio staple in the late ’60s.

It also helped establish Cream’s now-signature “wah-wah” sound through Clapton’s use of the Vox wah-wah pedal on songs like “Tales of Brave Ulysses” and “White Room.”

It transformed the pedal into a defining psychedelic effect that other musicians also adopted, including the legendary Jimi Hendrix.

Related: ’60s Rock Band, Disbanded After Two Years, Ranked ‘Best Supergroup’ of All Time

One of the most iconic decades for film is the ’90s. From Jurassic Park to Pulp Fiction, filmmakers were breaking boundaries left and right. Some flicks were so groundbreaking that they continue to top major industry lists.

In 2024, movie review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes released its list of the 300 best films of all time, compiling a stacked lineup of Hollywood’s greatest creations. Ranked ahead of classics such as Roman Polanski’s 1974 film Chinatown at No. 7 and Steven Spielberg’s 1993 film Schindler’s List at No. 10, Curtis Hanson’s 1997 hit L.A. Confidential took the No. 5 spot.

L.A. Confidential made its widespread U.S. release on September 19, 1997, after premiering at the Cannes Film Festival in France on May 14. The neo-noir crime-thriller marked Hanson’s eighth feature film and served as his major critical and commercial breakthrough.

Warner Brothers/Getty Images

Upon its release, L.A. Confidential was an undeniable box office success. The film grossed $126.2 million worldwide against a $35 million budget, turning a substantial profit for Warner Bros.

Alongside box office triumph, the movie garnered significant critical acclaim, earning nine Academy Award nominations at the 70th annual Oscar ceremony. Ultimately, the film won two Oscars: Best Supporting Actress for Kim Basinger and Best Adapted Screenplay for Brian Helgeland and Curtis Hanson.

L.A. Confidential was adapted from the 1990 crime novel of the same name by James Ellroy. The book is the third installment in his L.A. Quartet series and tells the story of three distinct Los Angeles detectives investigating a deadly shooting at a late-night coffee shop called the Nite Owl. Starring Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe and Guy Pearce, the film targets themes of police corruption and organized crime in 1950s Los Angeles.

Due to the movie’s stellar writing—heavily focused on rich character depth—incredible performances and stunning cinematography, critics widely consider L.A. Confidential a masterwork. Even film fans can’t deny its charm, as it holds a nearly perfect 99% critic score and a 94% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes—an impressive feat for any film.

Related: 1973 Rock Song, Recorded in a Colorado Barn, Became a Breakthrough Hit Despite Never Reaching No. 1

It’s been more than two decades since Entourage first took viewers inside the fast-paced, star-studded world of Hollywood, but fans haven’t stopped wondering if Vinny Chase and his crew could make a comeback.

Now, with creator Doug Ellin reuniting some of the stars for the Entourage podcast, the question naturally came up: Could the beloved HBO series ever return?

Speaking with Joe Vulpis during the Thursday, September 3, episode of his podcast, Ellin admitted plans for a reboot are not on the table.

“I would not spend one second,” he said. “I don’t spend one second thinking about ideas unless somebody’s paying me. It’s just too much too much at this point.”

He added, “I don’t know if it’ll come back. I mean, it doesn’t, like, I don’t think about it. I mean, they are, you know, older. It’s tough to put that together. And there were kind of special moments about it.”

While fans of the hit series may be disappointed, they can still catch Kevin Dillon, Kevin Connelly and Jerry Ferrera as they relaunch the podcast.

“It kind of feels like the show,” Ellin added. “I mean, you kind of get the vibe which is what I went for when I was casting them, to find a group of guys that are friends and to look at them and see that they’re friends 20 years later. We obviously put the right group together.”

Entourage ran for eight seasons between 2004 and 2011. It earned six Emmy Awards, including three consecutive awards for Jeremy Piven for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. In 2015, four years after the season finale, the cast reunited for a feature film of the same name.

In 1981, Stevie Nicks launched her solo career with Bella Donna, her debut album after becoming a star with Fleetwood Mac. The 10-track record opened a new chapter for Nicks, with nine songs written by her. It went on to top the Billboard 200 and included one of her most iconic hits, “Edge of Seventeen.”

At the time, Nicks was eager to see what she could accomplish without Lindsey Buckingham, her former romantic partner and Fleetwood Mac bandmate. In a 1981 interview with Blair Jackson, she explained how working with Buckingham had often meant handing over control of her songs.

“When you work with somebody who is that much in control,” Nicks said, “you forget that you’re even capable of doing something yourself.” She explained that she would write a song, and Buckingham would “fix it, change it around, chop it up and then put it back together.”

Making Bella Donna on her own was a completely different experience for Nicks. When asked whether working on her own was difficult, she said, “No, it was exhilarating! Instead of just sitting around hour after hour, I got to be a part of it.” 

“On this album I didn’t have to fight to do my songs the way I wanted to,” the songstress added. “The other players just did them the way I wrote them and they came out great.”

Pursuing a solo career while Fleetwood Mac was at the height of its success was a risk for Nicks. She later said the album’s title reflected the uncertainty she felt at the time. She named the record Bella Donna after the belladonna plant, also known as deadly nightshade. 

“[Bella donna] meant beautiful woman but also poisonous root,” Nicks told Classic Rock in 2003. “People use it for healing, but if you take too much, you can die. I thought, ‘This is the perfect double-edged sword title for the record.’” 

One of the album’s biggest songs, “Edge of Seventeen,” also came from a difficult period in Nicks’ life. In December 1980, her uncle Jonathan died after battling cancer, while John Lennon was murdered in New York City that same week.

“‘And the days go by like a strand in the wind,’ that’s how fast those days were going by during my uncle’s illness, and it was so upsetting to me,” she said in 1981. 

Nicks also revealed that the song’s white-winged dove represented a spirit leaving the body. “I felt a great loss at how both Johns were taken,” she said.

Bella Donna ultimately proved that Nicks could stand on her own. The album reached No. 1, remained on the Billboard 200 for nearly three years and established her solo career alongside her continued success with Fleetwood Mac.

Related: 1975 Fleetwood Mac Album, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Albums of All Time,’ Became a No. 1 Hit 50 Years Ago