Parade

Eric Burdon has spent more than six decades onstage, but earlier this year, the legendary singer made the difficult decision to step back from a scheduled performance to focus on his health.

Burdon, who turns 85 in November 2026, was expected to perform with Eric Burdon & The Animals aboard the Rock Legends Cruise XIII in February. However, his team announced that he would no longer be able to participate following recent health concerns and on the advice of his doctors.

In a statement shared by the cruise organizers, Burdon’s team said the singer decided to prioritize his recovery. His medical team was reportedly optimistic about his recovery, but the timing of the cruise did not allow enough time for him to properly heal.

The cancellation was particularly disappointing for Burdon, who had been looking forward to the event and expressed his appreciation for the Native American community, which is close to his heart.

For fans, the news offered a reminder of just how remarkable Burdon’s career has been.

“Sorry about the other two who had to drop out,” one Facebook user commented. “Prayers for them.”

“I really am disappointed that Eric Burdon cancelled,” another said.

“I was looking forward to seeing him more than anyone else. I know things happen, but this is really bad news for me. I haven’t seen him since the 80’s and probably won’t get another chance.”

“Burdon is especially saddened to miss this event, as the Native American community is close to his heart, and he was truly looking forward to being on board,” a top fan chimed in.

“He extends his sincere thanks to the organizers, fellow artists and fans for their understanding, kindness and continued support, and he hopes to reconnect with audiences in the future. Sending love and healing prayers for his complete recovery, and maybe he can join us next year and we can all celebrate his health!”

As the original frontman of The Animals, Burdon helped define the British Invasion with his unmistakable voice on songs including “House of the Rising Sun,” “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood,” “We Gotta Get Out of This Place” and “It’s My Life.”

The Animals became international stars during the 1960s, while Burdon later continued his career as a solo performer and with different versions of The Animals.

More than 60 years after The Animals first found success, Burdon remains closely connected to the music that made him famous. He has continued performing for audiences around the world, and recent footage of him onstage has prompted fans to celebrate his enduring voice and stage presence.

RELATED: The Animals’ Rock Classic Began With a Song Much Older Than You Think

Deion Sanders once played a professional football game and baseball game on the same day, as sports fans are well aware.

On a similar note, some athletes like to juggle two professions simultaneously, dabbling in entertainment while competing on the field in the same week.

Ceyair Wright, who once portrayed LeBron James‘ son in Space Jam: A New Legacy (2021), was about to suit up as an NFL rookie for the Cincinnati Bengals this season — until he called it quits.

On Saturday, August 15, reports from the team’s training camp confirmed on social media that Wright, 23, has left the roster to pursue acting.

“Rookie CB Ceyair Wright, who has several acting credits, left camp to pursue TV/Film opportunities,” reads the recent X post by Bengals radio voice Dan Hoard. “He’s been replaced by rookie Matthew McDoom (#41) who was released by the Ravens last week.”

Other media outlets then ran with the juicy update, including Bleacher Report with a joint Instagram post. “Bengals rookie Ceyair Wright was offered the lead role in a movie he couldn’t pass down 👀,” reads the post’s caption. See below.

Fans have since flooded the post’s comments section to share their reaction and speculate on what projects Wright might join. “Bro better be in the new x men film 🤣😅,” wrote one Instagram user, while another person commented, “He must be in some batman movie or sum.”

“[Wright] called us last night and let us know that he had an opportunity,” Bengals coach Zac Taylor told reporters on Saturday, per NBC News. “I know it was a difficult decision for him. I think two things he’s really passionate about were colliding, and he decided to pursue this opportunity. So he’s a great kid, comes from a great university. And, you know, we wish him the best. He was fun to be around. He really competed hard for us. It was fun watching him play. I thought he was ascending as a player. But, obviously, he’s chosen to go a different path.”

To solve today’s New York Times Connections Sports Edition puzzle, you’ll need to tap into your knowledge of college sports teams, have a general idea of players from the North and possibly know how to play defense when necessary.

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 Sunday, August 16, 2026, you’ve come to the right place.

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

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: Long story short.
• Green: Team leaders in the West.
• Blue: Baseball players from the 6ix.
• Purple: Not offense, but…

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

• Yellow: ACC SCHOOLS, ABBREVIATED
• Green: FIRST NAMES OF AFC WEST QBS
• Blue: TORONTO BLUE JAYS
• Purple: DEFENSIVE _____

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 #692 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

• ACC SCHOOLS, ABBREVIATED: BC, CAL, CUSE, PITT
• FIRST NAMES OF AFC WEST QBS: BO, FERNANDO, JUSTIN, PATRICK
• TORONTO BLUE JAYS: BIEBER, CEASE, GUERRERO, SPRINGER
• DEFENSIVE _____: BACK, END, INDIFFERENCE, TACKLE

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: 6 Store-Bought Ice Cream Treats That Will Transport You Back to the ’90s

What’s your favorite part of visiting Disney World? Or maybe it’s Disneyland, if you live on the West Coast.

Those who frequent the Anaheim, California theme park can rejoice following a series of announcements at this weekend’s D23 convention in that very city. And if you’ve been itching for Disneyland’s aging Tomorrowland to finally get a revamp, you’re really in for a treat.

On stage during the Horizons: A Carousel of Progress Disney Experiences during the annual fan event, Chairman Thomas Mazloum announced that a reimagining of Tomorrowland in Disneyland park is in the works, according to the Disney Parks Blog.

The planned transformation “will honor the legacy of the original land while reimagining its future. Disneyland Resort will strive to preserve what guests cherish most, while also introducing new experiences and possibilities for the next generation of fans,” according to the Disney Parks website.

The announcement write-up also noted that “Walt Disney Imagineers are already beginning to dream up the next chapter of innovation and storytelling for Tomorrowland with new attractions, more open spaces and new places for Disneyland guests to dream about the future. The plans for Tomorrowland will restore the spirit of optimism, innovation and possibility that inspired Walt Disney to create ‘a vista into a world of wondrous ideas…’ in 1955 and have defined this land for decades.”

“We are entering Disneyland’s next great chapter where new generations will continue to relive fond memories of the past and savor the the challenge and promises of the future, and it all begins with Tomorrowland,” said Mazloum, 59, during his big reveal, per the Los Angeles Times.

Today, Tomorrowland is home to a number of popular attractions, such as Space Mountain and Star Tours, but is also littered with underutilized buildings and a dead PeopleMover track, the LA Times also noted on Saturday, August 15.

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

When it comes to furnishing and decorating your home, the first step is determining the aesthetic you want for your space. You could go rustic farmhouse or whimsical cottagecore, mid-century modern, or any number of popular styles. If you want to give your home timeless appeal, it’s hard to go wrong with traditional interior design and vintage-inspired decor. Furniture that captures the essence of the old-money lifestyle and classic detailing that feels affluent yet understated has always been and should stay in style for years to come. 

If you like the collected & cozy nature of a traditional style but don’t want your house to look like a museum, this one’s for you. Here’s the pieces I’d recommend looking for! #interiordesigntips #vintagedecor #vintageinteriors #antiques #interiordesign traditional style, traditional home decor, traditional interior design, home with personality, vintage interiors, vintage home decor, antiquehomedecor, vintage cozy eclectic home decor, thrifting haul trinkets, nancy meyer aesthetic

While the traditional aesthetic has a bougie vibe, you can incorporate this trend into your home without spending a pretty penny. At Walmart, you can find old-money pieces that ooze quiet luxury at budget-friendly prices, like this Grecian-inspired Homfa 5-Tier Bookcase With Doors, which is currently on sale for under $150. Normally retailing for $220, this bookcase is now marked down to just $140, which is a buzzworthy deal considering that designer brands carry similar styles that are considerably more expensive. You can score this bookcase in two finishes, including a reddish-brown hue and a white version. 

Courtesy of Walmart

Featuring a structured silhouette with geometric panels and bold pillars inspired by ancient Greek architecture, this bookcase captures the essence of vintage-inspired charm. It has a bark-grain finish, giving it some texture, warmth, and a traditional vibe. This bookcase will instantly elevate your home’s aesthetic, adding a touch of quiet luxury that’ll make your home feel tastefully posh and elegant. 

Just as functional as it is decorative, this bookcase is a dream for storage and organization. It boasts ample storage space that’ll help you streamline your space in no time. The top half is fixed with three open shelves, where you can store linens and bedding, or put your book collection, LEGO creations, and decor pieces on display. For reference, the top shelf has a 10.4-inch vertical clearance, and the two shelves below have a 12.3-inch clearance. 

The lower portion of this bookcase features a two-tiered shelf hidden behind two doors. This cabinet is ideal for storing items you’d prefer to keep concealed to reduce the visual clutter. Designed to maximize storage space, the shelf is adjustable between three heights so you can fit items of various sizes. The doors are set on soft-closing hinges, preventing them from slamming shut. 

Courtesy of Walmart

Made of heavy-duty medium-density fiberboard (MDF) derived from pinewood, this bookcase is sturdy and durable with a 350-pound weight capacity. It weighs 70 pounds and has a thickened base for stability. Measuring about 28 inches wide, 13 inches deep, and 71 inches tall, this piece will make a statement wherever you put it. 

With its neutral hue and classy design, this bookcase should easily complement the rest of your furniture and decor. Place it anywhere in your home that could use additional storage and some sprucing up, whether it’s your living room, dining room, bedroom, or office.

• Hiphuta 10-Shelf Cabinet With Barn Doors, $180 (was $228) at Walmart
• Yocwo Arched Bookcases With Drawer, From $154 (was $300) at Walmart
• Homfa Wall-Mounted 5-Tier Ladder Bookcase, $70 (was $110) at Walmart

Related: Amazon’s ‘Stunning’ Vintage-Style Floral Lamp Will Transport You to the French Countryside for Just $60

Whether you’re looking to give your home a traditional feel or just need a stylish storage solution, the Homfa 5-Tier Bookcase With Doors is definitely worth adding to your space. Head to Walmart and snag it while it’s still on sale for just $140! 

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 Strands puzzle, you might need a little extra training.

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 #896 on Sunday, August 16.

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: Follow my lead.

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

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

• INTERN
• PROTEGE
• DISCIPLE
• APPRENTICE
• MENTEE
• JO (SPANGRAM)

Today’s Spangram is a mix of horizontal and vertical

Today’s Spangram answer on Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Sunday, August 16, 2026, is JOBTRAINING.

• INTERN
• PROTEGE
• DISCIPLE
• APPRENTICE
• MENTEE
• SPANGRAM: JOBTRAINING

Related: 6 Store-Bought Ice Cream Treats That Will Transport You Back to the ’90s

Today’s New York Times Connections puzzle is a bit more complicated than it looks, but as long as you know a little bit about our early ancestors, you should be good to go.

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 #1162 on Sunday, August 16, 2026.

The New York Times

If you’ve been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Sunday’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. Can often lead to a band’s big break.
2. You must be willing.
3. Like your in-laws.
4. First humans.

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. MUSICAL PERFORMANCE: CONCERT, GIG, SET, SHOW
2. PARTICIPANT: LEG, PHASE, STAGE, STRETCH
3. FAMILY RELATIONSHIP MODIFIERS: CHAMOMILE, GRINCH, HOTFOOT, LANYARD
4. DESCRIPTORS FOR OUR HUMAN ANCESTORS: FROM NEANDER, HANDY, UPRIGHT, WISE

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: 6 Store-Bought Ice Cream Treats That Will Transport You Back to the ’90s

You’ll solve today’s NYT Wordle puzzle in record time if you’ve ever had shrimp mold.

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 #1884 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 in today’s five-letter word.

Today’s Wordle begins with a vowel.

There are no double letters in today’s Wordle.

A hint for today’s Wordle is: A cold molded salad typically consisting of gelatin, meat, or tomato juice and chopped meat or seafood.

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 Sunday, August 16, 2026, is ASPIC.

-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)

One of rock’s most celebrated collaborations is suddenly back on the charts more than four decades after it was recorded.

Queen and David Bowie’s 1981 hit “Under Pressure” has re-entered Billboard’s Hard Rock Streaming Songs chart this week, landing at No. 24.

It’s the latest sign of remarkable staying power for a song that brought together two of rock’s biggest acts for a collaboration that came together almost entirely by chance.

“Under Pressure” has now spent 210 weeks on the Hard Rock Streaming Songs chart, according to Billboard, and has climbed as high as No. 9. All told, across every Billboard chart, “Under Pressure” has spent a whopping 300 weeks on one chart or another.

The renewed success comes 45 years after Queen and Bowie created the song during an impromptu recording session in Switzerland and more than a decade after Rolling Stone readers voted it the Greatest Duet of All Time.

Released in October 1981, “Under Pressure” became a major international hit, reaching No. 1 in the United Kingdom.

Its original performance in the United States, however, was considerably more modest.

In “The Billboard Book of Number One Hits,” music historian Fred Bronson notes that Queen had already scored two U.S. No. 1 singles with “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” and “Another One Bites the Dust” by the time the band joined forces with Bowie.

But despite the star power behind “Under Pressure,” Bronson writes that the single “ran out of steam at number 29” in the United States.

That makes the song’s decades-long afterlife particularly remarkable.

“Under Pressure” has grown far beyond its original U.S. chart peak, becoming one of the most recognizable recordings in both Queen and Bowie’s catalogs.

Rolling Stone readers eventually voted “Under Pressure” the Greatest Duet of All Time, placing the collaboration at No. 1 in a poll celebrating music’s most memorable pairings.

The publication recalled that Bowie originally went to Mountain Studios in Montreux, Switzerland, intending to contribute vocals to a different Queen song, “Cool Cat.” That collaboration didn’t work out, but Bowie and the four members of Queen began jamming together instead.

Within hours, they had “Under Pressure.”

The song’s famously spontaneous creation has become nearly as legendary as the recording itself.

Rolling Stone also included “Under Pressure” on its list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, describing it as an “epic anthem of resistance” that grew from an impromptu jam.

Queen guitarist Brian May recalled the unusual process, explaining that the musicians entered the studio without predetermined vocal parts.

“Everybody just goes in there with no ideas, no notes,” May told Rolling Stone, explaining that they later assembled the different pieces they had created.

Bowie similarly remembered just how quickly everything happened. In a Q&A on his website in 2004, he was asked about the story behind “Under Pressure,” something even Bowie marvels at:

The song was written from the ground up on the night I visited their studio. I believe the riff had already been written by Freddie and the others so then we jointly put together the different chord sections to make it a cohesive piece of music. Then Freddie and I came up with our individual top line melodies. So when you hear Freddie sing, that’s what he wrote and when you hear me sing, that was mine. Then we worked on the lyrics together. I still cannot believe that we had the whole thing written and recorded in one evening flat. Quite a feat for what is actually a fairly complicated song.

One part of the recording would become particularly famous: its instantly recognizable bass line. Yet one thing Queen and Bowie never managed to do was perform their famous collaboration together live.

Rolling Stone noted that even at 1985’s Live Aid, where both acts appeared on the same historic bill and Bowie’s set immediately followed Queen’s, they did not join forces for “Under Pressure.”

The song nevertheless continued to grow in stature long after its original release.

Now, 45 years after Queen and Bowie happened to find themselves in the same Swiss studio, the collaboration once voted the greatest duet of all time is back on a Billboard chart once again.

Related: 1975 Rock Epic, Revived 17 Years Later, Just Named the Greatest No. 2 Hit of All Time by Billboard

Patsy Cline made her mark on the music scene singing about unrequited love with heartbreaking hits like “Crazy” and “She’s Got You,” but it was “I Fall to Pieces” that served as her breakthrough hit, becoming her first song to reach No. 1 on Billboard’s country chart, now known as the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. 

Released in 1961 and appearing on Cline’s second studio album, Showcase, “I Fall to Pieces” features a 4/4 shuffle beat and finds the singer pouring all of her emotions into the lyrics as she captures the heartbreak of desperately trying, but failing, to move on from a relationship. 

RELATED: 1969 Hit, Reimagined by Reba McEntire Decades Later, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Country Songs of All Time’

Songwriting legends Hank Cochran and Harlan Howard co-wrote the classic country ballad with production credits going to Owen Bradley. And while the song has become one of Cline’s signature hits, she wasn’t the first artist chosen for the track. “I Fall to Pieces” was initially pitched to Brenda Lee, who, according to American Songwriter, turned it down believing it was “too country” for her pop style of music. 

Country singer Roy Drusky also rejected the tune because he thought it was too feminine for a man to sing on it. Luckily, Cline was able to record the tune, but not without a few reservations. 

Session singers the Jordanaires, who were famous for singing harmony on Elvis Presley’s recordings, were planned to deliver background vocals on “I Fall to Pieces” — something Cline was worried about as she thought their voices would drown hers out. She also felt the pop-leanings of the tune didn’t fit her style. Fortunately, that wasn’t the case as the final recording proved her fears unfounded.

RELATED: 1975 Rock Song, Written With John Lennon, Became an Accidental No. 1 Hit

Initially, the tune was ignored by pop and country radio stations, experiencing a slow build. It wasn’t until a pop station in Columbus, Ohio began playing the song that it started gaining traction. “I Fall to Pieces” debuted on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in April 1961 and reached No. 1 in August of 1961, two months after Cline was seriously injured in a June car accident that killed two people in the other vehicle and left her hospitalized for more than a month.

“I Fall To Pieces”  was a crossover success as well, reaching No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song has ranked No. 238 on Rolling Stone’s list of “500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” No. 40 on the outlet’s “40 Saddest Songs of All Time,” and No. 72 on its 2024 list of “200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time.”  

Related: 1970 Country Ballad, Written by Kris Kristofferson, Became a Young Singer’s Only No. 1 Hit

Bonnie Tyler’s legions of fans lined the streets of Wales to honor the music legend as her coffin returned home.

Tyler, a beloved Welsh singer known for her husky voice, died at the age of 75 on July 8 in a hospital in Portugal. But in the Welsh community of Mumbles, devoted fans stood and paid their respects to the “Total Eclipse of the Heart” singer as her coffin was transported to her  former home in Fernhill ahead of a “celebration of life,” Hello! reported.

Take a look at the powerful photos from the scene below:

Matthew Horwood / Getty Images

Matthew Horwood / Getty Images

Matthew Horwood / Getty Images

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

Early on Thursday, July 9, Tyler’s social media account announced the death of the “Holding Out For a Hero” singer.

“Bonnie’s family and team are heartbroken to announce that Bonnie unexpectedly passed away last night in hospital in Portugal as a result of the illness that she was being treated for,” the statement shared. “We will issue a further statement shortly but for now ask for privacy to deal with this tragedy.”

In early May, a representative for the singer told Entertainment Weekly that Tyler was in an induced coma.

“Bonnie has been put into an induced coma by her Doctors to aid her recovery. We know that you all wish her well and ask for privacy at this difficult time please,” manager Matt Davis told EW. “We will issue a further statement when we are able to.”

That announcement followed their statement that the singer had undergone emergency surgery in Portugal and was recovering.

“We are very sorry to announce that Bonnie has been admitted to hospital in Faro, Portugal, where she has a home, for emergency intestinal surgery,” said a statement published to her website. “The surgery went well and she is now recuperating.”

The statement continued, “We know that all of her family, friends, and fans will be concerned about this news and will be wishing her well for a full and swift recovery.”

Additional reports shared that Tyler had gone into cardiac arrest after her doctors attempted to bring her out of the precautionary coma.

In June, a representative for Tyler told The Sun that the singer had woken up from her coma, “but remains seriously ill.”

Aldara Zarraoa / Getty Images

Related: Rod Stewart Paid Tribute to Bonnie Tyler With a Powerful Performance of One of Her Biggest Songs

To solve today’s NYT Mini Crossword puzzle, you’ll need to be up on popular party terminology, have an understanding of workplace dynamics, and maybe check your email every day.

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

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

So, if you’re working on today’s Mini Crossword on Sunday, August 16, and need some help (I’ve been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both “Across” and “Down” words, followed by “Across Answers” and “Down Answers,” so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!

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

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

1 Across: [Guests must provide drinks] — HINT: Starts with the letter “B”

5 Across: “A hearty congratulations!” — HINT: Ends with the letter “O”

6 Across: ___ and aahed — HINT: Starts with the letter “O”

7 Across: Part of a skyscraper or Snapchat feed — HINT: Starts with the letter “S”

8 Across: Goal-scoring attempt — HINT: Ends with the letter “T”

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

1 Down: Soup base — HINT: Ends with the letter “P”

2 Down: Internet giant with a purple logo — HINT: Ends with the letter “O”

3 Down: In-your-face — HINT: Starts with the letter “O”

4 Down: Word before “language” or “lotion” — HINT: Ends with the letter “Y”

5 Down: Person to whom you might say “I’ll have it on your desk tomorrow” — HINT: Starts with the letter “B”

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

1 Across: [Guests must provide drinks] — BYOB

5 Across: “A hearty congratulations!” — BRAVO

6 Across: ___ and aahed — OOHED

7 Across: Part of a skyscraper or Snapchat feed — STORY

8 Across: Goal-scoring attempt — SHOT

1 Down: Soup base — BROTH

2 Down: Internet giant with a purple logo — YAHOO

3 Down: In-your-face — OVERT

4 Down: Word before “language” or “lotion” — BODY

5 Down: Person to whom you might say “I’ll have it on your desk tomorrow” — BOSS

Related: 6 Store-Bought Ice Cream Treats That Will Transport You Back to the ’90s

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

Joanna Gaines has become a household name thanks to her warm, approachable design sensibility and her talent for blending modern farmhouse style with timeless comfort. As the creative force behind Magnolia Home and co-star of HGTV’s Fixer Upper, Gaines has influenced countless homes across the country, bringing her signature blend of coziness, texture, and inviting color palettes to the mainstream. 

Her Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines x Loloi rug collection is no exception, and it’s now available at a can’t-miss price. That includes the Sinclair Machine Washable Runner Rug, currently offered for just $51 (down from $119) in the 2-foot, 3-inch by 7-foot, 6-inch size. This has quickly become a shopper favorite, and at this price it’s a no-brainer addition to your entryway, kitchen, or hallway.

Courtesy of Wayfair

The 2-foot-wide runner was praised by reviewers for its style, comfort, and practicality. Another factor that sets this rug apart is its eco-conscious construction. Power-loomed from recycled plastic that’s transformed into soft polyester, the Sinclair runner is a testament to modern design. 

The material reportedly feels gentle underfoot, a detail many reviewers mentioned, with one shopper sharing, “It’s so soft. My little girl loves lying and walking on it. I’m honestly so impressed with the quality.” Another shopper said the rug was “pretty, perfect, and soft.”

The rug is also available in nine other sizes and shapes, so there’s a fit right for any room. The vintage-inspired design draws on old-school motifs, brought to life with saturated colors and an antique-style finish. 

Unlike many other machine-washable options, the Sinclair boasts a thicker pile, adding depth and comfort to any room. The elevated look is matched by the practicality of being fully machine washable, making it ideal for busy households, pet owners, or anyone who values easy maintenance without sacrificing style.

One of the best things about this rug is how easy it is to keep clean, even in busy households. If you have a small spill, you can just spot-clean it with a damp or dry cloth and a little mild soap. For deeper cleans, the rug is designed to go right in a commercial washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water. 

Related: Walmart’s 5-Piece Patio Set Comes Complete With a Sectional and Table for $145

At 57% off, this washable runner rug is an accessible way to bring Joanna Gaines’ celebrated aesthetic into your home. With its pretty colors, soft texture, and sustainable construction, it’s no wonder shoppers are calling it perfect. Now is your time to refresh your space with a piece that balances beauty and practicality with a stunner of a price. 

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.

Nick Reiner‘s access to his family trust fund has been blocked as he awaits trial in connection with the deaths of his parents, filmmaker Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner.

According to an exclusive report from People, the trustees overseeing Reiner’s trust have opposed his request to receive money from the fund, citing California’s so-called “slayer statute.” Reiner, 32, had petitioned the court for access to what he says is more than $1.5 million in the trust, including money he says was supposed to be distributed to him when he turned 30.

Reiner wanted the funds to help cover legal expenses and commissary costs, including basic necessities while he remains behind bars. The trustees are arguing that no distribution should be made until the court determines whether California’s slayer statute applies. The law generally prevents someone from inheriting money or property from a person they have “feloniously and intentionally” killed.

Reiner has been accused of killing his parents, who established the trust in his name in 1993. He has pleaded not guilty and has not been convicted of the killings. His attorney, Anita P. Wu, pushed back on the trustees’ position, telling The New York Times, “The slayer statute requires a determination, not a mere accusation. Nick is presumed innocent and has been convicted of nothing.”

Photo by Laura Cavanaugh/FilmMagic

If the statute ultimately applies, the trust’s assets could instead pass to Reiner’s siblings, Jake and Romy, according to court filings.

Reiner was recently indicted on two counts of first-degree murder in connection with his parents’ December 2025 deaths. The new indictment also includes an alleged special circumstance of lying in wait, as well as an allegation involving the use of a knife.

For now, the dispute over the trust fund is another legal battle unfolding alongside the criminal case. Reiner is scheduled to return to court for a pretrial hearing on Sept. 15.

Over the weekend, Marvel announced the cast for the upcoming X-Men film, set to release in theaters on May 5, 2028. The lineup includes Sadie Sink (Stranger Things), who starred in Spider-Man: Brand New Day as Jean Grey, along with top actors and newcomers like Samara Weaving (Ready or Not 2: Here I Come), Adam Driver (Star Wars sequel), Kit Connor (Heartstopper), Maya Boyd (rising Broadway star) and Christopher Abbott (Wolf Man). But another casting announcement has X-Men fans super excited. Inde Navarrette will be portraying Rogue in the upcoming film! 

It was announced that the Obsession actress will be starring in the film earlier today at Disney’s D23 event in Anaheim, California. And Fans couldn’t be happier. Just two weeks ago, the actress was rumored to play Mystique in the film, stating that she “wants to play Mystique” after meeting with X-Men director Jake Schreier. 

Navarrette blew up this year after starring in Curry Barker’s horror film, Obsession, where she gave an outstanding performance that earned her the Critics’ Choice Award for Best Actress in a Horror Movie. Since the film’s release, fans have been praising Navarrette’s performance, hoping the scream queen will star in another horror movie.

Related: Curry Barker’s ‘Obsession’ to Release on Peacock After Earning $427 Million at the Box Office

Now that Navarrette has been cast as Rogue in X-Men, fans are reacting on social media. Discussing Film posted the announcement earlier today in a Tweet, which received over 38,000 reposts, 259k likes and 1.7 million impressions. 

INDE NAVARRETTE IS OUR ROGUE pic.twitter.com/GJHaLRIonT

Inde Navarrette joining the MCU right after Obsession pic.twitter.com/RN8q5XaWtL

While many fans are expressing their excitement on social media, others are worried about the actress’s pipeline from small indie projects to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Navarrette has previously starred in 13 Reasons Why and Superman & Lois.

Calling Inde a sellout or acting like shes been locked in superhero jail for the rest of her career is really funny. She was in superman and Lois before she got big and is constantly talking nerd shit I think she might just like superheroes

Despite critics, fans are overwhelmingly in support of Marvel’s casting of Navarrette. Rogue is a mutant with the ability to absorb the powers, memories and life energy of anyone she touches. After filming Obsession in October 2024, the actress took odd jobs like dog walking and streaming to make money. The movie was filmed on a $750,000 budget and Navarrette was paid $20,000 for her role as Nikki. Her casting as Rogue comes as a full-circle moment for the Marvel fan and newcomer in the industry.

Related: ‘Obsession’ Star Inde Navarrette Confirms She’s Bisexual

From streamer to biggest indie film of the year to MCU. WHAT A CRAZY LEAP FOR THIS WOMAN. https://t.co/k1QKxIdYPn

Not every British Invasion hit relied on driving guitars or rebellious attitude to capture listeners’ attention.

When Herman’s Hermits released “Mrs. Brown You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter” in 1965, the band’s playful charm and unmistakably British character set it apart from many of its contemporaries. The single featured frontman Peter Noone, who was just 17 years old, and quickly became one of the group’s defining recordings.

The song had an unusual history before becoming a hit.

Written by Trevor Peacock, “Mrs. Brown You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter” was originally intended as a novelty tune and had already been recorded by actor Tom Courtenay before Herman’s Hermits put their own spin on it. The band initially didn’t view the recording as an obvious single, but its conversational lyrics, Cockney phrasing, and Noone’s warm vocal gave it a personality that audiences couldn’t resist.

“I decided very early on when Herman’s Hermits came over to America that I was going to be that English singer who could do Buddy Holly, and that I would sing songs like George Formby did, in my own accent,” Noone told UK Music Reviews. “So we would play songs like ‘Mrs Brown You’ve Got A Lovely Daughter’ and ‘I’m Henry the Eighth I Am’ with an English accent.  The funny thing was that we were involved in The British Invasion but we were the only ones with a British accent. The Rolling Stones only ever used a British accent when they were giving interviews.”

Noone’s instincts were right on the money, as listeners embraced “Mrs Brown You’ve Got A Lovely Daughter” almost immediately.

Released in the United States during the height of the British Invasion, the song raced to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, where it spent three consecutive weeks at the top. It became Herman’s Hermits’ second U.S. chart-topper, reinforcing the group’s status as one of Britain’s biggest musical exports during the mid-1960s.

“It was a song we had done at The Cavern in Liverpool early days, and we loved the song and the presentation,” Noone said in a 2016 interview. “It was also a huge hit in the UK. When I sing it on stage everyone in the audience sings along, as it was on a British EP–which was 4 songs for the price of two songs–and was Herman’s Hermits’ biggest selling EP, and the song was massive everywhere, because it is fun and British and is a great bit of music!”

The success also highlighted Noone’s remarkable poise as a teenage frontman.

Despite being only 17 years old, he delivered the song with an effortless confidence that helped make its gentle humor and heartfelt lyrics feel completely genuine. His charismatic performance became one of the defining elements of Herman’s Hermits’ appeal and helped distinguish the band from many of its British Invasion peers.

“The dream was if you got on the radio, you would be on there with Frankie Valli and Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry—all the people that we idolized,” Noone told Best Classic Bands. “So you’d get on the radio and there you were within the same room as all those people. It was my visualization of what the music business was. I was probably only about 15, but I realized that you didn’t need to buy a record to like it. You could buy the ones that you really liked, but you would know all the other ones as well. I knew all the words to Cliff Richard’s songs, even though I never bought one. I liked them, but I didn’t buy them. Radio gave you an opportunity to listen to songs hundreds of times without buying them.”

Due in part to its radio presence, the song’s legacy has endured well beyond its chart run.

“Mrs. Brown You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter” has remained a staple of oldies radio and has been featured in films, television shows, and stage productions over the years. Its distinctive melody and unmistakable storytelling continue to introduce new listeners to one of the most memorable hits of the 1960s.

Sixty-one years after its release, “Mrs. Brown You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter” still charms audiences with its wit, warmth, and unmistakable British personality. Featuring a 17 year-old Peter Noone at the microphone, the 1965 classic remains one of Herman’s Hermits’ most enduring and beloved recordings.

Related: 1972 Soft Rock Song, Covered by Johnny Cash, Became a Career-Defining No. 1 Hit

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

Dresses are undoubtedly a summer staple, but midi-length styles transition well into the fall season. They offer ample coverage to shield your legs from the cool breeze and effortlessly layer under cardigans, jackets, and coats. If you’re looking to add one to your wardrobe, this Idopip Corset Midi Dress at Walmart is a fantastic option. It’s an easy way to look chic and elegant without having to piece together an outfit, and it pairs well with anything from sneakers to sandals to boots. 

Right now, you can snag this midi dress on sale for up to 58% off for a limited time with a Walmart flash deal. It normally retails between $28 and $43, but select styles are now marked down to just $18. Prices vary depending on size and style. You can choose from a handful of options, currently priced between $18 and $20. Additional styles are on sale for $30, which is still a steal, considering that this dress looks eerily similar to a popular designer label’s style that’s all over social media and goes for 13 times the price. 

Courtesy of Walmart

This dress is available in a plethora of styles, including floral prints and solid colors. The floral prints come in either a pink or a white base and feature different-sized flowers in various colors depending on the style. If you prefer something a bit more understated, you can choose from solid hues in black, white, green, navy blue, red, and butter yellow. Sizes range from extra small to extra large, and shoppers noted that it fits true to size. 

Oozing with cottagecore charm, this midi dress can make everyday life feel romantic and dreamy. A ruched bust and a sweetheart neckline that curves down toward the middle create an outline resembling the top half of a heart. The neckline is adorned with a delicate drawstring that you can tie into a bow for a coquette accent. 

The highlight of this piece is the built-in corset, designed to hug your upper torso. The corset has boning that adds a paneled look. For a tailored fit, the back is equipped with laces you can tighten or loosen. From the corset, the fabric subtly flares out, giving it an A-line silhouette that elegantly drapes down and ends around the mid-calves. This dress boasts a side slit, allowing you to freely move around while giving the hem a flowy feel.

Courtesy of Walmart

For convenience, the spaghetti straps are adjustable so you can choose where the dress sits on your body. The side has a concealed side zipper, making it easy to slip into this dress.

Made of polyester, this dress is lightweight and breathable, delivering all-day comfort. Multiple reviewers raved about how “soft” the fabric is. They also mentioned that the fabric felt high-quality and wasn’t see-through. Whenever you want to give this dress a refresh, handwash it with cold water and hang it up to dry to keep it in pristine condition. 

Shoppers absolutely adored the style of this dress, describing it as “beautiful,” “very cute,” and “absolutely stunning.” They also loved the fit and feel, commenting that it’s “very comfortable and flowy.”

• Fantaslook Short-Sleeve Midi Dress, From $15 (was $29) at Walmart
• Time and Tru Linen-Blend Halter Dress, $15 (was $30) at Walmart
• Fantaslook V-Neck Tank Dress, $14 (was $25) at Walmart

Related: Walmart’s ‘Vibrant’ $16 Maxi Dress With Pockets Makes Summer Dressing Effortless

If you want to look like luxury without having to splurge, don’t hesitate to snag the Idopip Corset Midi Dress at Walmart while it’s still on sale for as low as $18. Be sure to hurry because it’ll only be available at this buzzworthy price for a limited time! 

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.

John Fogerty is known as one of the most prolific singer-songwriters in music, but few songs are as closely associated with him as “Proud Mary.” The Creedence Clearwater Revival classic was first written and recorded in 1968 and released in 1969 on CCR’s second studio album, Bayou Country. The song became the band’s first major U.S. hit, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Proud Mary” became an anthem, beloved by generations of music lovers. The song is so ubiquitous that it’s a regular on streaming playlists and soundtracks, and even became the soundtrack at a gas station where Fogerty himself recently pulled over to fill up.

Fogerty, 81, is currently touring the country on his Legacy Tour, including some dates with rocker Steve Winwood. Fogerty took a break from sharing his more than 50-year catalog with fans to stop at a gas station, where he was greeted by the sound of his own voice.

Big wheel keep on turnin’! This song is finally back where it belongs with the artist who created it and we’re celebrating all summer long! Tour continues next week: Aug 20 – Windsor, ON Aug 21 – Toronto, ON Aug 22 – Rama, ON Aug 31 – Morrison, CO Sep 3 – Tinley Park, IL* Sep 5 – Canandaigua, NY* Sep 6 – Lenox, MA* Sep 8 – Boston, MA* Sep 9 – Bridgeport, CT* Sep 11 – Atlantic City, NJ* Sep 12 – Wantagh, NY* Sep 13 – Bethel, NY* Sep 15 – Vienna, VA* Sep 16 – Charlotte, NC* Sep 18 – St. Augustine, FL* Sep 19 – Clearwater, FL* Sep 20 – Hollywood, FL* Oct 2 – Thackerville, OK *with Steve Winwood Tickets at JohnFogerty.com #proudmary #johnfogerty #ccr #legacy #ontour

In the video, Fogerty shyly smiles as he fills his car with gas while “Proud Mary” plays on the service station’s speakers. The famed singer takes in the simple moment, knowing his music has become part of the public’s everyday lives and the soundtrack of their memories, from the simple parts of life, like getting gas, to watching the singer himself perform the song onstage.

Fogerty looks peaceful in the moment before he gives the camera a peace sign and goes on with his journey.

The timeless quality of Fogerty’s music is part of what has made him such an enduring artist across so many generations of music. Fans were touched by the simple moment, caught on video, and were quick to express their adoration for the music legend.

“Oh wow!!! I love this. I still play your music. It’s timeless,” shared one fan.

Another added, “How cool is that.”

“Timeless music,” added another. “Thank you, sir.”

Related: 1969 Rock Classic, Written in Just 20 Minutes, Named the Greatest Protest Song of All Time

Rollin’ into the 4th of July with “Proud Mary” Which Fogerty song(s) is on your 4th of July playlist? #4thofjuly #johnfogerty #ccr #fyp #america250

So what is it about “Proud Mary” that has given the song such staying power?

It’s one of the enduring songs of Fogerty’s catalog, alongside hits like “Bad Moon Rising,” “Fortunate Son” and “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” “Proud Mary” is also a song that has been covered so many times that it’s the rare track that can eclipse a generation and become an anthem that transcends time.

The song was famously covered by Ike & Tina Turner, whose version of “Proud Mary” became a major hit on its own. The song is also a standard on wedding playlists, movie soundtracks and streaming playlists of classic rock songs and best-of roundups.

It’s even played in gas stations.

Decades later, Fogerty is still touched by seeing and hearing fans’ reactions to “Proud Mary.” He’s previously shared that performing the song is particularly special because he can see the reaction from the audience. The song means so much to so many people.

Judging by John Fogerty’s reaction to hearing his own song played in public, the feeling means just as much to him.

Related: John Fogerty, 80, Finally Reveals the Surprising Inspiration Behind ‘Proud Mary’

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

Yesterday, Disney announced the lineup for several upcoming films, including the casting for X-Men. All weekend long, Marvel fans are gathering at Disney’s D23 Event in Anaheim, California, to celebrate all things Disney and Marvel, from films to video games to television and more. At the event, Marvel announced the casting for X-Men, and the fans are super excited. The lineup includes Samara Weaving as Emma Frost, Inde Navarette as Rogue, Maya Boyd as Storm, Kit Conner as Cyclops, Christopher Abbott as Professor X and Adam Driver as Nathaniel Milbury aka Mister Sinister. Sadie Sink, who starred in Spider-Man: Brand New Day as Jean Grey, will also be reprising her role in the film. 

Cast so far for ‘X-Men’

Releasing in theaters May 5, 2028 pic.twitter.com/Bljd0Z5nyM

With the recent casting announced, fans were asking one question: Where is Mystique? Over the past week, we’ve seen lots of fancasts for the X-Men characters, from Jayme Lawson as Storm to Inde Navarette as Mystique to Peter Claffey as Beast. The latest social media fancast has Marvel fans begging for a specific actress to join the MCU as Mystique: Hunter Schafer. Since the viral fancast, Marvel fans are on board and hope she is cast in the upcoming film. 

#MOTHERISCOMING pic.twitter.com/v3FgZCYZTx

Film Updates tweeted yesterday, “Mystique and Beast have yet to be cast.” The comments were flooded with replies of fans posting edits, photos and tweets of support for Schafer being cast in the role. In today’s news on X, Schafer’s fancast is also a hot topic. The fancast isn’t just viral on X. Users on TikTok are also jumping on the Schafer-Mystique train, making edits of the actress as the popular character. 

marvel u just have ONE job #mystique #hunterschafer #fyp

So, when will Mystique’s casting be announced? With the casting announcements for several major X-Men characters, fans are hoping to hear more news from Marvel soon. Previously, Jennifer Lawrence and Rebecca Romijn portrayed Mystique. 

Nicole Kidman is coming clean about her secret hobby.

The 59-year-old actress isn’t too old for nightlife. She revealed how she goes incognito before dancing in the Ibiza clubs.

She shared her secret to British Vogue in a cover story published Thursday, Aug. 13.

Kidman has enjoyed this past summer traveling in Europe, with a large part of it at the flat she’s had in London for over 20 years.

“I’m stealth. I’m good at slipping in and slipping out of everywhere,” she said, listing the cities she’s visited in the past weeks. “London, Ibiza, Paris, Portofino… a Euro summer.”

The Moulin Rouge! actress was not shy when asked about her time in Ibiza: “It’s a small dinner party or it’s a rave.”

“I’m either playing Scrabble or I’m out. It’s that simple,” she said. “Dinner at 10.30pm, club at 1am. I’ll put on glasses. Sometimes I’ll wear a wig to hide, a little dark wig, and then I can just dance. As long as I’m surrounded by people — like, I take people with me — then I’m fine. I need it.”

The Academy Award winner told British Vogue about her upbringing in Sydney. She shared that clubs have long been a special space for her.

“I’ve said it before but I used to go to trans clubs,” she recalled. “That’s where I learnt to do my hair and make-up. I would sit down as a little freckled-faced red-headed girl and they would make me beautiful.”

“They would do my lashes and straighten my hair and put hairpieces on me and make-up,” she continued. “I would walk out of there and I would feel pretty. I would feel like I was transformed.”

Kidman’s newest film, Practical Magic 2, is a sequel to the 1998 fantasy movie of the same name. The next installment will hit theaters Sept. 11.