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Our devices are no longer just a matter of convenience; they’re a means of survival. You can hardly function out in the world without access to an app or a map in your pocket. If you were to arrive at an airport without your phone, how would you even check in for your flight, let alone entertain yourself during the hours of waiting in line to get through security and board? Even on a road trip, having your phone to guide you to the nearest rest stop or gas station is a necessity. Letting your phone die when you’re away from home simply can’t happen. 

If a wireless multi-use charger isn’t already part of your travel cache, now’s the time to add one. For less than $30, you can snag the Iseyyox 3-in-1 Foldable Wireless Charger at Amazon that’s built to power your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods all at once and will barely take up any space in your carry-on. 

Iseyyox 3-in-1 Foldable Wireless Charger, From $27 at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Designed with MagSafe technology exclusively for the Apple ecosystem, this device can charge your phone, earbuds, and smartwatch simultaneously, saving you from having to pack three different plugs and charging cords. Unlike bulkier models, this sleek wireless charging pad folds out into a completely flat charging pad with designated areas for each device, but also gives you the option to charge your phone propped up horizontally or vertically.

When it’s time to stash it away, this charger folds up into a little square measuring approximately 7 centimeters wide and long and 3 centimeters thick. That’s pretty tiny — think matchbox-sized, not even as long as a credit card. It can easily slip into your purse or your pocket so you can save space in your bag for all your other travel essentials. 

Amazon shoppers have given this folding charger over 4,000 five-star reviews, with multiple travelers calling it a “game changer” for its space-saving design. “The foldable design is compact and convenient, so it’s easy to keep on a desk or take while traveling,” a reviewer said. Beyond traveling, many customers shared that they keep this charger handy at work, school, or any other time they’re spending the day away from home.

Shop More Deals

• Duloch USB-C Charging Blocks, $22 (was $26) at Amazon
• Rynd Traveling Wireless Mag-Safe Fast-Charging Station, $18 (was $20) at Amazon
• Murpiso Foldable Magnetic 3-in-1 Charger, $20 (was $28) at Amazon

Related: Aldi’s 3-in-1 Charger Is a Game Changer for Frequent Travelers

Snag the Iseyyox 3-in-1 Foldable Wireless Charger ahead of your next trip and never be caught with a dead device away from home again. You can add it to your Amazon cart today for just $27.

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You might recall a scene from The Help when Octavia Spencer’s character Minny asks Jessica Chastain’s Celia what she knows how to cook, to which she replies, “Oh, um, I can cook corn pone,” among a scant few other things. But unless you’re from the South, you probably have no clue what corn pone even is. Lucky for you, yours truly is a resident Southerner who loves an opportunity to nerd out about all things comfort food, and it would be my pleasure to give you all the deets. 

Corn pone, sometimes referred to simply as pone, is a traditional unleavened bread made up of cornmeal, salt and water. Unlike its cakier cousin, cornbread, corn pone is dense and flat, more similar to Johnnycakes or hoecakes with a texture similar to grits. As for where it came from, corn pone is an amalgamation of recipes co-opted by colonists from Native Americans, who made a type of bread they called apones. It became a staple on tables across the United States due to its simple preparation and relatively low cost, and the rest, as they say, is history. 

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Naturally, then, it makes sense that a certain Smoky Mountain Songbird from East Tennessee (aka country music legend Dolly Parton) would have her own recipe for the classic Southern staple, and of course I had to try it out for myself. Read on to find out how Dolly Parton makes her version of corn pone, and learn how you can make it entirely your own with a few tiny tweaks. 

Ingredients for Dolly Parton’s Corn Pone

Courtesy Kenn C. Bivins

The beauty of Parton’s recipe is that it’s almost impossibly simple with only five ingredients total, and most of them are probably already in your pantry. All you need to make Dolly Parton’s Corn Pone is 2 cups of cornmeal, 2 teaspoons of flour, salt, 2 teaspoons of some sort of fat (Parton uses bacon grease), and just enough milk to make a thick batter (about a cup). Once you’ve got the basics, you can play around with extra flavors or additions to make Parton’s corn pone uniquely yours. 

Related: I Tried Reese Witherspoon’s Grandma’s Corn Salad and It’s the Refreshing Ode to Summer That I’ll Be Making on Repeat

How to Make Dolly Parton’s Corn Pone

Courtesy Kenn C. Bivins

In keeping with the easy-as-pie theme, making corn pone is as simple as tossing everything into a bowl, mixing it up and shaping the pones by hand. From there, you can either fry them up in a cast-iron skillet like I did, or place them on a sheet pan and put them in an oven preheated to 425°F for 12 to 15 minutes. After that, all that’s left to do is enjoy! This recipe makes about a half dozen pones depending on their size, but you can always double it to make as many as you need.

As far as serving them goes, you can go either sweet or savory. Pones with gumbo are a match made in heaven, but they’re also fantastic with a drizzle of honey or a slather of jam. You could even enjoy yours the true Southern way by pouring a generous amount of milk on top and digging in. 

What I Thought of Dolly Parton’s Corn Pone

Courtesy Kenn C. Bivins

Hot diggity dog, these corn pones are good! For those of you not from the South, that translates to you should, in fact, absolutely make these. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they’re the perfect little something to add to your dinner spread to beef up whatever else you’re making. They’re dense in a way that’s endearingly satiating, but also craveable enough that you can’t eat just one. Parton is definitely onto something with her corn pone recipe.

That said, they are a tad bit plain, but that’s also what makes them perfect to pair with other dishes like red beans and rice or beef stew. Even for how simple they are, the possibilities for making them even more flavorful are virtually limitless. Personally, I can’t wait to make some with cheddar and minced jalapeños folded in. Needless to say, corn pone has absolutely found its way into my recipe rotation.

Related: I Made the Retro School Cafeteria Pizza We All Remember—Here’s Why It Still Holds Up

5 Tips for Making Dolly Parton’s Corn Pone

Courtesy Kenn C. Bivins

Although Parton’s recipe is pretty perfect as is, you can always kick things up a notch by making a few smart adjustments. Here are five tips for making Dolly Parton’s corn pone even better.

1. Use the right cornmeal.

To stick as close to the original recipe as possible, you’ll want to look for plain cornmeal without any extra leavening agents or additives. Of course, if you’ve already got a self-rising corn meal mix on hand, you can use that, but you’ll end up with a fluffier finished product. And as far as how coarse you like your cornmeal, that’s totally up to you. 

2. Swap out the liquid. 

While there isn’t a ton of liquid in this recipe, you can still play around with what you use to give your corn pones some extra flavor—whether it’s chicken broth or the water from soaking dried chiles. You could even make a corn broth to wade further into cornmaxxing territory. Whatever liquid you use, the key is to use just enough to help create your batter without making it runny. You want a thicker oatmeal consistency rather than a runny porridge when it comes to this recipe. 

3. Experiment with fat. 

Another way to experiment with flavor is to choose the right kind of fat. In this case, it’s bacon grease, but you can also use butter, oil or lard to give your pones their own unique flavor. Brown butter would also be fabulous in these, adding a rich, nutty flavor. Fortunately, because this recipe is so forgiving, you can add a little extra fat if you want to really concentrate the flavor without much change to the finished product.

4. Add a little sugar.

This is more of a personal preference, but a pinch or two of sugar can go a long way in bringing out the cornmeal’s natural sweetness. It helps to balance things out and give the entire dish a subtle lift. Honey is also a great addition, and as a bonus, it’ll give your pones a little bit of added moisture. And if you really want to kick things up a notch, I suggest reaching for your favorite hot honey. 

5. Don’t forget the mix-ins. 

Although it’s definitely not traditional, corn pones are practically begging to be studded with mix-ins. You can fold in cheese or caramelized onions, and why not crumble in that bacon you just rendered the fat from? And who says you have to stop at savory inclusions? You could add in diced peaches or a swirl of strawberry jam and even butterscotch chips if you’re feeling adventurous. Mix-ins are a low-effort way to make your corn pones even more of a showstopper, and who knows—you might just find yourself with a new favorite recipe.

Related: I Tried Princess Diana’s Favorite Stuffed Bell Peppers—and They Weren’t What I Expected

Today’s Strands puzzle refers to a popular food you’d purchase at a football or baseball game.

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 #899 on Wednesday, August 19.

How to Play Strands

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.

What Is Today’s Strands Hint for the Theme: “For better or wurst.”

If that doesn’t help, here’s a hint for today’s Strands game: Summer supper, in color.

What Are Today’s NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

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

• ON
• CH
• RE
• KE
• MU
• SA
• TO (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

Today’s Spangram is a mixture of vertical & horizontal.

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for August 19

Today’s Spangram answer on Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Wednesday, August 19, 2026, is TOPDOG.

What Are Today’s NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Wednesday, August 19?

• ONION
• CHEESE
• RELISH
• KETCHUP
• MUSTARD
• SAUERKRAUT
• SPANGRAM: TOPDOG

Related: Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Monday, August 17, 2026

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We’re already in the latter half of summer, which means that fall will be here before you know it. When the temperatures start to drop and leaves begin to change colors, there’s nothing better than snuggling up on your couch while reading a book or watching your favorite rom-com. No lounge session is complete without a cozy throw blanket, and we found one that you can use all year long: This Msgkv 100% Cotton Throw Blanket at Amazon. 

While it looks like something you would find at a high-end retailer, you can currently score it on sale for under $20! This is a deal that you don’t want to miss, as several TikTok users and numerous Amazon shoppers stated that “it’s reminiscent of something you would find at Anthropologie.”

@wildandalmostfree

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♬ original sound – Wild & Almost Free Inc.

Normally retailing for $23, the floral, butterfly, and bird style is now marked down to just $19 in the 50-by-60-inch throw size. From summer evenings out on the patio to rainy fall days on your couch, this throw blanket delivers lasting comfort. 

Msgkv 100% Cotton Throw Blanket, From $19 (was $23) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The floral, butterfly, and hummingbird blanket is also available in five larger sizes, ranging from 60 inches by 80 inches to 90 inches by 108 inches, with prices starting at $28 and going up to $75. You can also score this blanket in 36 other styles, including several other floral patterns, coastal designs, Roman-inspired motifs, and more. Prices for those in the throw size range between $24 and $33, which is still a fantastic deal. 

Boasting a stunning nature-inspired design, this throw blanket heavily lends itself to the cottagecore aesthetic. The abstract botanical print boasts vibrant flowers and leaves in a plethora of hues, and cheerful hummingbirds and butterflies fluttering around, creating a buzzy scene that’ll bring your space to life. 

The artwork is woven into the throw to prevent it from peeling or fading, ensuring a pristine look for years to come. This throw blanket has a reversible design — one side has a white background, and the flipside has a moody blue background. 

Made of 100% cotton, this throw blanket is crafted with four layers of fabric. While it’ll keep you warm during the chillier months, it’s lightweight and breathable. This blanket promotes airflow to help keep your body temperature regulated so you don’t overheat, making it ideal for all-season use. Because of its not bulky, multiple shoppers mentioned that they were able to pack it up easily and travel with it. 

Msgkv 100% Cotton Throw Blanket, From $19 (was $23) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Designed for comfort, this blanket is soft to the touch and incredibly comfortable to snuggle up with. Over 200 reviewers attested to this, raving about its soft texture. For peace of mind, this blanket is Oeko-Tex certified. Safe and skin-friendly, the fabric has been tested and is free of over 1,000 harmful toxic substances. 

When you aren’t snuggled up in this blanket, it doubles as a chic accent. You can lay it on the foot of your bed, drape it on an armrest, or sling it over a backrest for a pop of color. It’ll create a cozy yet intentional look that’ll pull your living space together.  

Whenever the blanket needs a refresh, you can toss it into the washing machine with cold water and tumble dry it on low heat afterwards. Shoppers noted that it washed beautifully without any shrinking or pilling. They also commented that it held up through numerous cycles. 

This throw blanket has racked up over 2,000 five-star ratings, and it’s really no surprise. Shoppers absolutely loved the style of this blanket, describing it as “whimsical,” “gorgeous,” and “chic.” One reviewer said that it’s “so beautiful, incredibly soft, snuggly, and breathable.” A second customer noted that it’s “warm but lightweight, so it’s perfect for year-round use.” 

Shop More Deals 

• Sidefeel Ruffled Cardigan, $22 (was $40) at Amazon
• Keloris Path Beaded Gemstone Necklace, From $16 (was $18) at Amazon
• Your Heart’s Content 5-Pack of Mini Knit Pumpkins, From $12 (was $17) at Amazon

Related: Kohl’s Cheerful $20 Woven Sunflower Storage Basket Is the Cutest Way to Ease Into Fall Decor

If you’re looking to spruce up your living space or simply want something cozy to cuddle with this fall, be sure to grab the Msgkv 100% Cotton Throw Blanket at Amazon while it’s still on sale for as low as $19! 

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.

To solve today’s New York Times Connections puzzle, you’ll be exploring expressions for something easy, words meaning to conceal, terms that come before “ball” in sports and homophones of popular animated movies.

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 #1165 on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.

Today’s NYT Connections Puzzle for Wednesday, August 19, 2026 / New York Times

New York Times

If you’ve been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Wednesday’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

Hints About Today’s NYT Connections Categories on Wednesday, August 19

1. Easy
2. Hide
3. Sounds like a sport
4. Could be a movie

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

Today’s Connections Game Answers for Wednesday, August 19:

1. PIECE OF CAKE: BREEZE,CINCH, PICNIC, SNAP
2. CONCEAL: BLANKET, HIDE, MASK, OBSCURE
3. WORDS BEFORE “BALL” IN SPORT NAMES: BASE, BASKET, FOOT, PICKLE
4. HOMOPHONES OF CGI-ANIMATED FILMS: ANTS, COCOA, RHEO, SEOUL

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: NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Tuesday, August 18, 2026

Toy Story 5 has delighted fans with the return of the beloved franchise. Luckily for those who missed the theatrical run, the film is being released on streaming services.

The latest installment hit big screens on June 19. It brought in over $1 billion, with $312 million of that being made during opening weekend, a new record for the franchise.

Toy Story 5 follows the beloved toy characters after their owner, Bonnie, is gifted a tablet that lets her play online, not just with the toys.

It was directed by Andrew Stanton and brought back the voices of Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, and Joan Cusack for Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Jessie. It introduced new characters voiced by A-listers such as Conan O’Brien, Bad Bunny, and Greta Lee. It also featured an original song by Taylor Swift, “I Knew It, I Knew You.”

Walt Disney Home Entertainment revealed that fans will be able to watch Toy Story 5 at home on demand starting Tuesday, August 18. The film will be available for purchase on digital platforms such as Apple TV, Fandango at Home, Prime Video, and YouTube Movies & TV.

Disney also shared that there will be a physical-media release for Toy Story 5. Fans can purchase the film in 4K, Blu-ray, and DVD formats starting September 22. Additionally, they will offer a Steelbook Blu-ray with a variant cover and a five-movie box set.

Digital copies will include several bonus features. When purchased, fans will be able to access five production featurettes, five deleted scenes, and commentary on the film by co-director Kenna Harris, production designer Bob Pauley, and VFX supervisor Thomas Jordan.

Is it a total surprise that some of your favorite video-game franchises from back in the day are still going strong?

That includes the annual NBA 2K releases, with the 2027 edition dropping as soon as next month. And if the anticipation wasn’t already building — especially following the real-life New York Knicks’ historic championship win this year — 2K just unveiled a number of never-before-seen gameplay features that will be included in NBA 2K27.

On Tuesday, August 18, the video-game publisher announced a brand-new mode in MyCAREER, where players can now step outside the modern NBA and build their career in one of five historical eras, built on the foundation of the so-called MyNBA Eras.

Each era reportedly features its own specific window of time, with rosters, rules, and presentation meticulously calibrated to that period. Players can start their journey in one the following:

• the Magic vs. Bird Era (1984)
• the Jordan Era (1991)
• the Kobe Era (2003)
• the LeBron Era (2010)
• the Steph Era (2016)

Each will have historically locked rosters, trades and player movement to keep the league behaving exactly as it unfolded, 2K reports, allowing players to be an active participant in NBA history.

The official NBA 2K27 Instagram account joint-posted a reel on Tuesday to tease the all-new Eras mode, which clearly reignited fans’ excitement for the upcoming release.

View this post on Instagram

Gamers have since flooded the post’s comments section to show their support for the new component. “That’s lit ima go crazy Ina 2000s 😂,” wrote one Instagram user, while another person commented, “Damnit boys they got us again we’re all back interested💀.”

Plus, for the first time ever, 2K27 players can invite a friend to play co-op multiplayer directly in their MyCAREER, made possible by “Running Mate Trace Miller,” a custom teammate introduced in the G League who stays through a player’s full NBA career. Players choose one of nine build templates carrying shades of current NBA stars, then earn points through gameplay to upgrade Trace’s attributes, Badges, and playstyle, unlocking new Running Mate play skills along the way.

The game launches worldwide on September 4.

Pacific Northwest-based bestselling author Kristin Hannah is renowned for her sweeping, emotional stories that span years and take place against real-life historical events. Her 2015 historical fiction novel The Nightingale is one of her most beloved titles, with the massively successful work having sold over 11 million copies worldwide and been translated into more than 45 languages.

Upon publication, The Nightingale spent more than 20 weeks on The New York Times bestseller list and 45 weeks on the NPR Hardcover Fiction Bestseller List. The novel is still captivating readers 11 years later, with it recently being ranked among the “Most Read Books of 2026” on the reader platform Goodreads. On the platform, The Nightingale holds a 4.65 rating and has been shelved by readers more than 327,000 times.

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The book was optioned in 2015 for a film adaptation produced by TriStar, and in 2019, it was announced that sisters Dakota and Elle Fanning would star in the movie, marking the first time they’ve shared a screen together as actresses. After several years of delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other halts, The Nightingale officially went into production in March of 2026. Currently, the movie is set to release in March of 2027.

Estranged sisters Vianne and Isabelle are the center of the novel against the backdrop of World War II and the Nazi invasion and occupation of France. Vianne, quieter and more reserved, opts to house a German officer in order to protect her daughter while secretly hiding Jewish children at a local Catholic orphanage. The opposite of her sister, Isabelle is more fiery and forceful and joins a rebel resistance, guiding pilots through the Pyrenees mountains. The novel tells the story of the sisters during the war and how they both attempt to survive a nightmarish time in history.

The Nightingale is available wherever books are sold.

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Related: Best-Selling Novel by Kristin Hannah Ranked a ‘Most Read Book of 2026’ by Goodreads

Queens of the Stone Age have more new music on the way. The announcement for the hard rock band’s ninth studio album was released this week, with the hard rock legends also sharing the title. Fans now have Perfecth to look forward to later this year, per Louder.

The news follows the band’s July 14 release of “Easy Street,” a track that represents the band’s first piece of new music in three years. Surprisingly mellow, the song forgoes the heavy, hard-hitting stoner rock riffs QOTSA are known for and instead gives fans a spacey, starry-eyed psychedelic track to zone out to.

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But the announcement wasn’t your everyday press release from the eight-time Grammy nominated group. Instead, frontman Josh Homme and guitarist-slash-keyboardist Dean Fertita confirmed the moniker of their new album while playing one of the oldest, most notorious games in the book: the five-finger fillet.

Also known as the knife game, the exercise in speed and coordination sees a player place their palm flat on a table with their fingers spread wide. Then, with a sharp knife, they rapidly stab back and forth into the empty spaces between their fingers. The goal is to move as quickly as possible in a set pattern without filleting any little digits.

In their announcement video posted to Instagram, fans can watch Fertita master the game while Homme sinks a knife deep into his flesh.

“Does it hurt?” Fertita asks.

“Yes, it f—ing hurts, dude,” Homme says. “Pull it out. “I can’t do it.”

Homme eventually removes the blade, leaving behind a geyser of blood.

QOTSA formed in 1996, with singer and guitarist Homme launching the band as Gamma Ray. He changed the name a year later. Since their founding, they have released eight studio albums, debuting with their self-titled record in 1998.

The debut introduced the band’s raw, heavy, hypnotic vibe, with key songs “Regular John,” “Mexicola,” and “If Only” becoming fan favorites.

In 2002, they released Songs for the Deaf. Widely considered their masterpiece album and commercial peak, it features Nirvana/Foo Fighters drummer Dave Grohl and singer Mark Lanegan. Standout tracks include “No One Knows,” “Go With the Flow,” and “Millionaire.”

Perfecth follows QOTSA’s last album, 2023’s In Times New Roman…, which marked a back-to-basics return to the band’s gritty and sinister desert rock roots. The record also served as the final chapter in a trilogy of Matador Records releases, beginning with …Like Clockwork in 2013 and Villains in 2017.

QOTSA are currently touring North America with Foo Fighters, with additional dates scheduled for September. The band will then head to Australia and New Zealand in December, where Primus and Tropical F— Storm are also on the bill.

Related: 1991 Thriller, Based on the Thomas Harris Novel, Features One of Classic Rock’s Greatest Movie Moments

Today’s NYT Wordle is essential when it comes to having a cookout in your backyard.

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 #1887 ahead.

Let’s start with a few hints.

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How many vowels are in today’s Wordle?

There is one vowel in today’s five-letter word.

What kind of letter does today’s Wordle start with?

Today’s Wordle begins with a consonant.

Are there any double letters?

There are double letters in today’s Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today’s Wordle

A hint for today’s Wordle is: refers to an outdoor appliance used to cook food.

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 for #1887 on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.

Today’s Wordle answer on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, is GRILL.

-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)

It’s one of the most famous country songs of all time, but it’s also one of the saddest.

The 1980 George Jones classic “He Stopped Loving Her Today” is considered one of the most heartbreaking country songs ever written, but even outside of the country genre, it’s been ranked as one of the saddest songs in music history.

Rolling Stone ranks the emotional ballad at No. 6 on its list of the 10 Saddest Songs of All Time, alongside other deep cuts like “Hurt” by Nine Inch Nails, ranked at No. 2, and “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton (No. 1). In 2019, the outlet released a similar roundup of the saddest songs particularly within the country genre, where Jones’ hit landed at No. 4.

“He Stopped Loving Her Today,” penned by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman, tells the tragic story of a man heartbreaking story of a man who remains devoted to his former lover for decades, with his love for her only ending when he dies. It was released in April 1980 as the lead single from Jones’ album I Am What I Am, which spent a week at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart.

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“He Stopped Loving Her Today” is widely considered to be one of the best country songs ever recorded. Rolling Stone ranks the Jones track at No. 5 on the 200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time, among the ranks of other country mega-hits, like Dolly Parton‘s “Jolene” (No. 1) Johnny Cash‘s “I Walk the Line” (No. 2), Patsy Cline‘s “Crazy” (No. 3) and Hank Williams‘ “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” (No. 4).

Billboard‘s 2025 ranking of the 100 Best Country Songs of All Time features “He Stopped Loving Her Today” at No. 4, while the Grand Ole Opry has declared the Jones classic as the official No. 1 Greatest Country Song of All Time, according to a fan vote conducted in 2025.

Related: Hayden Panettiere Once Performed Country Icon Patsy Cline’s Biggest Hit Alongside a Rock Legend

Summer is centered around the outdoors. Beach days, pool parties, backyard cookouts…Activities like these are what make summer special. Maybe you’re fortunate enough to have a vacation, where you’ll spend the remainder of your summer days sightseeing and exploring.

To fully enjoy everything summer has to offer, it’s important to know how spending time in the heat can impact your health so you can take precautions and stay safe. According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, July 2026 was the warmest month on record for the contiguous U.S. Every single state ranked in the warmest third of their July temperature records and none ranked near or below average.

Related: Cardiologists Are Begging People To Stop Doing This One Thing in Extreme Heat

Spending prolonged time in hot weather can impact cardiovascular health, particularly for senior adults and anyone with a pre-existing heart condition. According to a scientific article in the Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine, an average of 702 deaths were due to the heat each year between 2004 and 2018.

When exactly do temperatures reach a point when they become dangerous and how can you protect yourself? Here’s everything you need to know, straight from cardiologists.

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How Heat Impacts Cardiovascular Health

Simply put, spending time in hot weather puts added stress on the heart, explains Dr. Waseem Chaudhry, MD, the director of non-invasive cardiology and cardiac prevention for RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group and Community Medical Center. “The heart has to work harder to keep the body cool, increasing the risk of heart-related problems,” he says.

When the body becomes dehydrated and overheated, Dr. Chaudhry says it can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat or chest discomfort, especially in people with underlying heart conditions. “When the body is dehydrated, there is less circulating fluid, which also forces the heart to work harder to maintain blood flow,” he says.

Related: Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Blood Pressure When You Sit Outside All Day in the Heat, According to a Cardiologist

To avoid putting added stress on your cardiovascular system from dehydration, Dr. Sandip Patel, MD, an interventional cardiologist with the Orlando Health Heart and Vascular Institute, says it’s important to be well-hydrated before you spend time outside on a hot day as well as continuing to stay hydrated while you’re outside. 

If you experience any of the aforementioned symptoms, Dr. Chaudhry says to move to a cool place, drink water if you are able to and immediately stop any physical activity. “If symptoms like chest pain, trouble breathing, confusion or fainting develop or don’t improve, seek immediate emergency medical care,” he says.

How Hot Is ‘Too Hot’?

Dr. Patel says that there isn’t one exact temperature that is considered dangerous for cardiovascular health because different people have different levels of heat tolerance. “There isn’t really any set temperature cutoff because humans adapt to their climate and it’s more about changes from the norm,” he says. For example, someone who lives in a state where it never gets very hot and then vacations somewhere with 90℉+ heat is going to be more at risk than someone who lives somewhere hot year-round.

Even though different people have different levels of heat tolerance, Dr. Chaudhry says that spending prolonged time in 90℉+ heat can be dangerous for anyone—especially when the heat is accompanied by humidity. “Staying hydrated and taking breaks in the shade or air-conditioning can help reduce strain on the body,” he says.

Related: Urologists Are Begging People Over 50 To Stop Ignoring This Warning Sign in the Summer

To gauge how outdoor temperatures where you live may impact your health, Dr. Patel recommends using the National Weather Service’s heat risk map as a tool. “Yellow means people who are extra heat sensitive, like those with heart conditions, are at risk, and orange means anyone heat sensitive can be at risk,” he says. Dr. Patel says that it’s important to know that “heat sensitive” doesn’t just refer to age and health. It’s also about how long someone is outside and the type of work they are doing outside. “Working or doing something strenuous for more than an hour makes you automatically heat sensitive, in my professional opinion,” he says.

How To Stay Safe

Both doctors say that people with heart disease, high blood pressure, heart failure or a history of stroke need to be particularly cautious in summer heat. Dr. Chaudhry adds that older adults and people taking blood pressure medications and water pills (diuretics) may also be more vulnerable to the heat.

To protect yourself from the heat during summer (whether you have an underlying health condition or not), Dr. Chaudhry recommends avoiding being outside during peak afternoon heat and spending time in the air conditioning whenever possible. He also recommends wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, which helps the body release heat more effectively. 

Both cardiologists reiterate the importance of staying hydrated, including before and after you spend time outside. If you are sweating a lot, Dr. Patel recommends using electrolyte powders or drinks. “Oral rehydration works as fast as 15 to 30 minutes if you are mildly dehydrated. That’s the first step. But if you pass out, have a fever, palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath or don’t feel better after hydrating, go to the emergency room,” Dr. Patel says.

To fully enjoy summer, safety must come first. Especially if you aren’t used to spending time in hot weather, it’s important to take breaks to be inside in the air-conditioning when you can. That way, you can enjoy the sunshine without fearing the heat.

Up Next:

Related: ‘I’m a Cardiologist, and This Is the One Supplement I Actually Take for Heart Health’

Sources 

• Assessing the U.S. Temperature and Precipitation in 2026. National Centers for Environmental Information.  
• Desai, Y., Khraishah, H. and Alahmad, B. (2023). Heat and the Heart. Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine. 96(2):197-203.
• Dr. Waseem Chaudry, MD, director of non-invasive cardiology and cardiac prevention for RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group and Community Medical Center.
• Dr. Sandip Patel, MD, interventional cardiologist with the Orlando Health Heart and Vascular Institute.

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Extra stovetop space can become especially valuable when you don’t have any left. Whether you’re cooking a big dinner, working with a smaller kitchen, or need a backup while your regular stove is out of commission, the Sunmaki Portable Dual Electric Cooktop gives you more room to cook without installing another appliance. The best part? It’s currently $126 at Walmart, down from $240, and has a slim black design that can sit right on the counter.

The cooktop features two independent heating zones, 10 temperature levels, and nine power levels, so you can adjust each side depending on what you’re making. There are sensor touch controls, a timer that can be set for up to three hours, a child safety lock, a high-temperature indicator, and an automatic shutoff. The crystal glass surface also wipes clean easily, and the entire cooktop measures 22.9 inches deep, 14.2 inches wide, and just 2.7 inches high.

Sunmaki Portable Dual Electric Cooktop, $126 (was $240) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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If you’ve ever hosted a party or cooked a big meal, you probably know the struggle of wishing you had just one more place to cook. This portable model lets you boil pasta while a sauce simmers, cook vegetables alongside a protein, or keep another dish going while the rest of the stovetop is occupied. It’s especially useful when several parts of dinner need to be ready at the same time.

One shopper said the cooktop is “excellent for a small apartment,” while another mentioned that “it heats up so fast.” A third person was impressed by the cooking area, noting its “very nice size” and how large the cooktop is. Other reviewers mentioned using it while their regular stove was being repaired and liked how easy it was to get cooking quickly.

Related: Walmart’s ‘Very Pretty’ $30 Leaf and Pumpkin Wreath Is an Easy Way to Get Ahead on Fall Decor

One important thing to know before buying is that this is an induction cooktop, so your cookware needs to be compatible. It works with cast iron, iron, enameled iron, and stainless steel cookware with a magnetic bottom. An easy way to check what you already own is to place a magnet against the bottom of the pan. If it sticks, it should work with the cooktop.

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The Sunmaki Portable Dual Electric Cooktop is a practical option for anyone who could use more flexibility in the kitchen without adding a full-size appliance. Its slim shape makes it easier to store, while the adjustable heat settings and two cooking zones give you plenty of options for everyday meals. With the price down to just $126, now is a great time to grab it for nearly 50% off at Walmart.

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Denis Leary, the Hollywood actor known for his role in the 2012 movie The Amazing Spider-Man, is celebrating a major milestone.

The comedian, actor, writer and producer, who played the role of Captain George Stacy, has just turned 69.

Born on Aug. 18, 1957, the Worcester, Massachusetts, native developed an interest in entertainment and acting after an unexpected incident.

Before making a name for himself on screen, Leary admitted to being a rebellious student in Catholic school.

During his guest appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show, he recalled a special moment when a school nun changed his life and introduced him to musicals.

Describing himself as a “terrible student,” he mentioned Sister Rosemary Sullivan, a determined nun who encouraged him to try out for acting.

Denis Leary attends “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” premiere in 2014.

Theo Wargo/WireImage

“Everyone in the neighborhood went to that school, so they knew the troublemakers. My older brother was a troublemaker, so there’s no hope for me. I didn’t believe in what they were teaching… this nun grabs me in the hallway and goes, ‘Leary, you’re in the musical,’” he shared. “‘I don’t want to be in a musical,’ but [she said] ‘You have to,’ so I go…”

What initially seemed like a divine intervention led Leary to develop an interest in musicals and participate in rehearsals.

Seeing that he could confidently sing and portray roles, the actor realized that “moment changed my [his] life.”

After joining musicals in high school, he began his professional career in the Boston comedy scene after graduating from college.

In the ‘90s, he caught the public’s attention with his edgy commercials and music video-style comedy appearances on MTV. However, it was his one-man stand-up show No Cure for Cancer that became his breakthrough.

Performed on an Off-Broadway stage, the show was also released as a TV special in 1993.

It even earned multiple prestigious awards, including The Critics’ Award at the 1992 Edinburgh International Arts Festival and The Recommendation Award from the BBC Festival in 1992.

From then on, he became a household staple, appearing in 1990s movies such as Demolition Man and Judgment Night in 1993, as well as the dark comedy The Ref in 1994.

In the 2000s, he showed a different side of his acting range after joining the critically acclaimed FX series Rescue Me.

Co-created and produced by Leary, the series ran from 2004 to 2011. He also starred as the lead actor, taking on the role of New York City firefighter Tommy Gavin.

The role earned him major recognition, including three Primetime Emmy Award nominations, two for Outstanding Lead Actor and one for Outstanding Writing.

Apart from this, fans also saw his impressive skills as a voice actor in the 2002 movie Ice Age.

Beyond his work on screen, Leary is also known for his philanthropic endeavors, including the Leary Firefighters Foundation, which he founded in 2000.

Related: ’70s Rock Legend and Lead Singer of Beloved Supergroup Turns 74

Village People singer Victor Willis died on June 30, and his official cause of death has been revealed. He was 74 years old at the time of his passing.

Willis’ wife, Karen Willis, shared a post on Facebook, saying that he died of primary liver cancer with metastasis.

“Primary liver cancer runs in Victor’s family as his mother also died of primary liver cancer, and so has several other relatives,” she wrote.

Karen initially broke the news of the singer’s death in June, saying he died after “a short but aggressive illness.”

Willis was a member of the popular disco group, having famously co-wrote hit songs including Y.M.C.A.,” “Macho Man,” “Go West” and “In The Navy.” In July, his Village People bandmates came together and honored the singer in a very heartfelt tribute, all showing up to the funeral dressed and ready as if they were going to perform a show. It was James Kwong; the construction worker; Nicholas Manelick, the cowboy; Javier Perez, the Native American; James Lee, the G.I.; and J.J. Lippold, the leather man, who were spotted in costume based on photos obtained by TMZ.

As for Willis, he always dressed as the group’s police officer. He was one of the founding members in 1977, and after a break, he rejoined the band in 2017.

Following his death, many tributes poured in, including from President Donald Trump, who said he would think of Willis every time he hears the song “Y.M.C.A.” Trump shared a message on social media following news of his passing, remembering him as ” a great and happy guy.”

“They loved the action, and we loved them and their great and uplifting song,” Trump wrote. “We will think of Victor every time YMCA is played, like today, and all throughout this July Fourth Birthday week. My condolences to his wonderful family and group, Victor Willis will be sorely missed, God Bless Him!!!”

Julie Chen Moonves has been hosting Big Brother since its very first season in 2000—and now she’s finally revealing what makes a good game player.

On Sunday, Aug. 16, Chen Moonves was joined by executive producers Allison Grodner and Rich Meehan as well as BB24 winner Taylor Hale for a panel titled “Big Brother: 1,000 Episodes Inside the House” at the Televerse festival in Los Angeles, Calif.

During the panel, the longtime host shared her advice for becoming a Big Brother winner.

“I think if you want to win, you got to do the Derrick Levasseur, which is you cannot have loose lips,” Chen Moonves said. “Now Derrick wasn’t boring … but I think to be a good player to win, maybe be a little bit boring and not talk. That would be terrible for us on the show.”

She continued, “We’ve seen so many personalities win from the loudmouth Dick Donato, original pots banging, to Dr. Will Kirby, the original guy who was like, ‘I hate all of you. You should vote me out.'”

“We’ve seen different types of gameplay and strategies and personalities win, and I think that’s what makes the show so compelling,” she added. “There is no formula because you never know what kind of chemistry is going to exist and what other personalities you have to coexist with because someone might bring out the worst in you.”

Chen Moonves then joked about her love of “showmances,” noting there are some players who don’t care about the game once they find the love of their life inside the BB house.

RELATED: Frankie Grande Slams ‘Big Brother’ Contestant Who Hit on Sister Ariana

Big Brother will airs its 1000th episode, a first for primetime television, during the Thursday, Aug. 27th episode of Big Brother 28.

The show will broadcast a special 90-minute live episode, and according to a press release from the network, the historic night “will feature surprise appearances from former Houseguests determined by interactive fan votes and kick off the biggest twist of the summer.”

“The episode will look back at some of the most memorable moments from the show’s historic 26-year run and shift into overdrive with the BB Blockbuster and a live eviction,” the release continued.

Though the game-changing twist has yet to be revealed, fans are speculating that this season’s time travel theme will be woven into whatever’s in store.

Big Brother airs at 8 p.m. ET/PT Sundays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays on CBS and Paramount Plus.

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We’ve all got those staple jewelry pieces that we reach for constantly, but wearing the same necklace every day can start to feel a little repetitive. An interchangeable pendant set is an easy way to switch things up without needing a whole jewelry box full of necklaces. With one chain and several pendants, you can create different looks in seconds.

The Cultured Freshwater Pearl 3-Piece Interchangeable Pendant Set gives you three distinct looks without having to buy three separate necklaces. All three pendants work with the same chain, so you can swap them depending on your outfit or mood. During Macy’s Semi-Annual Jewelry Sale, the set is 72% off, bringing the price down from $200 to just $56.

Cultured Freshwater Pearl 3-Piece Interchangeable Pendant Set, $56 (was $200) at Macy’s 

Courtesy of Macy's

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The set features three cultured freshwater pearl pendants in gray, pink, and white, each offering its own look. The white pearl is a classic everyday option, while the blush pink pearl adds a soft, feminine touch that works especially well with warm-weather outfits. The gray pearl has a more modern feel and pairs nicely with cool tones, dark neutrals, or evening looks.

Each pendant is designed to work with the included 18-inch sterling silver box-link chain, with an approximate 0.6-inch drop. The simple chain keeps the focus on the pearls while making the set easy to wear with everything from casual basics to office outfits and dressier pieces.

The interchangeable design also makes styling more flexible. Wear the white or pink pearl during the day, then switch to gray for dinner or drinks without changing your entire necklace. You can also wear the pendants individually for a minimalist look, layer the chain with other necklaces, or cluster two or all three pendants together for a more distinctive statement.

Related: Anthropologie’s ‘Pretty’ Coastal-Chic Necklaces Are Effortlessly Stylish and Start at Just $30 

One shopper described it as “versatile” and “beautiful,” writing, “This set can be worn with dressy, professional, and casual outfits.” Another said it’s “pretty” and “dainty,” adding, “I like jewelry that is more subtle and refined, and not too flashy — this fits the bill perfectly. The colors on the pearls are very smooth and lustrous.”

Beyond being an easy addition to your own jewelry rotation, the set could also make a thoughtful gift. The three pearl colors give the recipient options, while the interchangeable design makes the necklace feel more unique than a traditional single-pendant style.

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For a versatile pearl set that gives you multiple looks in one, the Cultured Freshwater 3-Piece Interchangeable Pendant Set is a great find. And with Macy’s Semi-Annual Jewelry Sale bringing it down to just $56, you can save nearly $150 on a set that you’ll be able to wear again and again.

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August 1966 was a big month for “Sunny.” Bobby Hebb’s soulful new song climbed to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of the biggest hits of the summer.

Just months later, the song would take on another life thousands of miles away, as Chris Noel, a young actress, singer, and iconic Armed Forces personality, began performing it for American troops in Vietnam.

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Known to many as the “Voice of Vietnam,” Noel completed eight tours to the war zone between 1966 and 1971. Her active involvement included visiting troops during two of Bob Hope’s traditional USO Christmas shows and hosting A Date With Chris, a popular Top 40 music show broadcast through the Armed Forces Radio and Television Service. In fact, Noel became the first woman broadcaster on Armed Forces Radio since World War II.

“I just think that war is hell, no matter who is fighting or where the wars are,” she said per her website. “But sometimes I think you have to have war in order to have peace. What you really need to know is how important our veterans are when they come back. How they should be treated with dignity, because that’s what they gave to you; their dignity. And they made a vow that they would give up their life for you.”

During her live appearances at remote bases and other military installations, one song became as synonymous with Noel as her signature greeting, “Hi, love.” And that was the 1966 soul standard “Sunny.”

Shimmying through rows of soldiers and even stopping to perch on some of their laps, Noel would customize the lyrics to the song on the spot, weaving in the actual names of the GIs sitting before her. She did it so often, “Sunny” became a Noel standard.

According to The Washington Post, the soldiers were affected by Noel’s performances in different ways, with some blushing and others being moved to tears by Noel’s deeply emotional touch of home. But even though the song had a sunny disposition and brought hope to those who heard it, it was actually born from a dark time in its writer’s life.

Penned by Bobby Hebb, whose own 1966 recording became the song’s breakthrough hit, “Sunny” remains ambiguous in its inspiration—its lyrics could pertain to anyone or anything. According to Songfacts, the song is often linked to the death of Hebb’s brother, Harold, who was murdered outside a Nashville nightclub on Nov. 23, 1963, which is also the day after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

The tragedy deeply affected Hebb, although he later described the song as coming to him during a late-night burst of inspiration about comfort, love, and survival.

Gems / Getty Images

“I was working at Brandy’s, a bar and restaurant in New York City on 84th close to Second Avenue,” Hebb said, explaining the genesis of the song, per the outlet. “I was under the influence of Tennessee Sipping Whiskey, highly under the influence. As a matter of fact, I was so under the influence that I was afraid to try to go to sleep. And I looked up, and I saw a purple sky. I had my guitar in my hand, and without touching a pencil, I started writing it. And that’s how the song was born. I hit the nail right on the head.”

Hebb then recorded the song with producer Jerry Ross, with Joe Renzetti handling the arrangement. The result, a classic mid-tempo soul-jazz standard with an infectious beat and a sophisticated R&B groove, was a smash.

Released in mid-1966, the tune not only peaked at No. 2 in the U.S. in late August, blocked only by The Lovin’ Spoonful’s “Summer in the City,” but it went all the way to the top of the Cash Box chart. Its success even led to Hebb landing a spot as an opening act on The Beatles’ final U.S. tour that month.

The soul standard went on to become one of pop music’s most-recorded compositions, with hundreds of versions by artists ranging from Frank Sinatra, Cher, and Marvin Gaye to Stevie Wonder and James Brown, who all put their own spins on the classic song. But perhaps none more unique than Noel, whose improvised renditions offered soldiers something they desperately needed: that vital reminder of home.

Related: 1974 Soft-Rock Song, Whose First Note Left Eric Clapton Awestruck, Became a Cross-Generational Hit

In 1972, a melancholy ballad written by a 21-year-old singer-songwriter became one of the biggest hits of the year, spending six weeks at No. 1 and even leaving Neil Diamond amazed by the young musician behind it.

The song was Gilbert O’Sullivan’s “Alone Again (Naturally),” which was nearing the end of its massive run atop the Billboard Hot 100 54 years ago.

“Alone Again (Naturally)” first reached No. 1 on July 29, 1972, and ultimately spent six nonconsecutive weeks at the top, interrupted only by Looking Glass’ “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl).” Its sixth and final week at No. 1 came on the chart dated Aug. 19.

Gilbert O’Sullivan Wrote ‘Alone Again (Naturally)’ at 21

What made the song’s success particularly remarkable was O’Sullivan’s age when he wrote it.

The Irish singer-songwriter was just 21 and living in a cottage on the estate of his manager Gordon Mills when the melody first came to him.

“The songs were just coming out of me,” O’Sullivan recalled in an interview with the Galway Advertiser. “I wrote this melody. I thought it was nice, but I put it to one side.”

O’Sullivan didn’t return to the melody until later, when he needed more material. Even after “Alone Again (Naturally)” was recorded, however, nobody involved seemed to realize they had just made a future No. 1 hit.

O’Sullivan said another song from the session, “Out of the Question,” was initially the favorite, while Mills only decided at the last moment to go with “Alone Again (Naturally)” instead.

“It may not be as commercial as ‘Out Of The Question’, but let’s go with it,” O’Sullivan remembered Mills saying.

The song’s sophistication later caught the attention of Neil Diamond, who recorded his own version for his 2010 album Dreams.

“Neil Diamond covered ‘Alone Again’ and said he couldn’t believe a 21-year-old wrote it,” O’Sullivan said. “But for me it was just one song I had written.”

Even more remarkably, O’Sullivan said there was no sense at the time that the song was destined for the top of the charts.

“Nobody said ‘Wow! That could be No. 1 in America!'” he recalled, but within months, that’s exactly where it would end up.

‘Alone Again (Naturally)’ Spent 6 Weeks at No. 1

Music historian Fred Bronson also traces O’Sullivan’s unusual path to American stardom in his book “The Billboard Book of Number One Hits.”

Born Raymond Edward O’Sullivan in Waterford, Ireland, the future singer moved with his family to England as a teenager. Inspired by everyone from The Beatles to Cole Porter, he began writing songs while attending art college.

After O’Sullivan connected with manager Mills, who had previously helped transform Tom Jones and Engelbert Humperdinck into stars, Mills changed Raymond’s first name to Gilbert. O’Sullivan kept the name even though, as he joked, some people assumed Gilbert O’Sullivan had to be his real name.

When “Alone Again (Naturally)” entered the Hot 100 in June 1972, Bronson writes, Mills also decided that O’Sullivan needed a new image for American audiences. Out went the singer’s earlier Chaplinesque look, replaced by a more collegiate style.

The strategy worked. “Alone Again (Naturally)” reached No. 1 on July 29 and became a blockbuster, spending 11 weeks in the Top 10, 15 weeks in the Top 40 and 18 weeks on the Hot 100. It ultimately finished as the No. 2 song of 1972 on Billboard’s year-end Hot 100.

Not everybody was quite as impressed with the song as Diamond.

Years later, humorist Dave Barry included “Alone Again (Naturally)” in his “Book of Bad Songs,” where he identified O’Sullivan as one of the leading vote-getters in his “Bad Song Survey” category of what he jokingly called “weenie music.”

The joke may not have aged as well as the song. More than five decades later, “Alone Again (Naturally)” remains O’Sullivan’s biggest U.S. hit.

And he’s still making new music.

As Parade recently reported, the now-79-year-old singer-songwriter is preparing to release his 21st studio album On The Record on Nov. 6. The 13-song collection was recorded in just five days and arrives as O’Sullivan celebrates 60 years in music.

More than half a century after a song written at 21 took him to No. 1, O’Sullivan’s songwriting career is still going.

Related: 1966 Hit, After He Faked Celebrity Autographs to Look Successful, Launched Neil Diamond’s Career

Las Vegas is about to lose one of its most dazzling shows. After four years of high-flying acrobatics and jaw-dropping stunts, Cirque Du Soleil’s Mad Apple is coming to an end at New York-New York Hotel & Casino. Fans have just two weeks left to experience the show before it takes its final bow.

“Mad Apple introduced stand-up comedy to a Cirque du Soleil resident show for the first time, and its blend of acrobatics and humor was the right combination to lead us out of the pandemic,” Mark Cornell, CEO of Cirque du Soleil, said in a Saturday, August 15, statement. “We thank the cast, crew, and creative team and every guest who joined us at New York-New York, and we remain focused on the next chapter of our Las Vegas portfolio.”

While Mad Apple is saying goodbye, four Cirque Du Soleil shows will continue enchanting fans in Las Vegas: Mystère at Treasure Island, “O” at Bellagio, KÀ at MGM Grand and Michael Jackson ONE at Mandalay Bay.

The captivating show debuted in May 2022, taking over the showroom where Zumanity was a fixture for 17 years. Fans have until September 5 to catch a show. Ticket holders with admission scheduled for after September 5 will be refunded or offered an exchange.