Parade

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

If you're constantly fighting bedside clutter, a larger nightstand can give your essentials more room to breathe. A spacious tabletop has plenty of room for a statement lamp, framed photos, a catchall tray, and charging pads without feeling overcrowded. Add in multiple drawers, and it can also work like a mini-dresser for extra linens, loungewear, skincare, and other daily essentials.

One great option is the Sicotas Large Rattan Nightstand Set. Right now, it's on sale for up to 42% off at Walmart, bringing the price down from $300 to $175 for a set of two in the black finish. For two substantial nightstands with plenty of storage, that's a pretty impressive value.

Sicotas Large Rattan Nightstand Set, From $175 (was $300) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The nightstand set comes in three finishes: black, cherry oak, and white cream oak. Prices range from $174 to $200 depending on the color, and you can also purchase them individually at $140 in select colors. That makes it easy to choose a single nightstand or create a coordinated look on both sides of the bed.

Storage is one of the biggest selling points. Each nightstand has two large drawers and an open shelf, giving you plenty of room to tuck away clutter while keeping a few favorite items on display. Measuring 15.5 inches deep by 26.7 inches wide by 25.6 inches tall, they're larger than many standard nightstands while still offering a practical footprint. 

The design adds plenty of personality, too. A woven rattan door gives the nightstand a relaxed, textured look that works especially well with coastal, farmhouse, and bohemian-inspired spaces. It's the kind of detail that makes the piece feel more decorative than a basic storage cabinet.

Related: Walmart's ‘Practical’ $16 28-Piece Organizer Set Makes It Easy to Tame Clutter Anywhere

The nightstands feature golden pull rings that add a decorative touch while making the drawers easy to open. Beyond the bedroom, these nightstands can also work as side tables in living rooms or functional storage pieces in hallways, making them useful for various rooms throughout the home.

They're made from rattan and engineered wood for a sturdy feel and long-term use. Assembly is required, but the set comes with a complete manual, installation video, and clearly labeled parts to make the process easier. Once assembled, the substantial construction gives them a stable feel.

One shopper described the nightstands as “easy to assemble." They added, “They’re simple yet beautiful. The look is farmhouse but they go with everything.” Another reviewer said they’re “very cute,” writing, “These look much more expensive than they are! I love the coastal look of them.”

Shop More Deals

• Bestier Farmhouse Nightstand Set, $218 (was $430) at Walmart
• Idealsoul Nightstand With Charging Station, $70 (was $132) at Walmart
• Ktaxon Solid Wood Nightstand, $103 (was $156) at Walmart

For spacious bedside storage that combines practicality with a stylish, textured design, the Sicotas Large Rattan Nightstand Set is hard to beat. And with Walmart's current 42% discount, you can save $125 on the set of two and give your bedroom a chic organizational upgrade without spending a fortune.

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.

Building out a kitchen with all the proper tools can take a lot of time. But while you save up for your dream cookware pieces and stainless steel appliances, there’s actually a world of kitchen essentials to be acquired that, for one, won’t break the bank and, two, come in handy more often than you might think.

This week, Aldi has an option that checks both boxes, combining an affordable $13 price tag with a versatile meal prep station. Back in stock after a long hiatus, the Crofton Wood Chopping Blocks are finally here, ready to make your life in the kitchen easier while adding a touch of farmhouse charm to your countertop, too.

😋😋SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & more in our daily Pop Kitchen newsletter🍳🍔

Crofton Wooden Chopping Blocks, $12.99 at Aldi Round Bamboo

Aldi

A long-running returning lineup that always gets loads of attention from eager fans, this year’s Crofton Wooden Chopping Blocks look nearly identical to models of years past. But don’t get it twisted, this isn’t some stale drop shoppers have seen enough of. These are tried-and-tested designs that fit a wide range of prepping and serving needs.

Just like past releases, you can choose from Square Acacia, Square Bamboo and Round Bamboo options, each sporting the same $13 price tag and ready for everything from chopping veggies and slicing meat to portioning ingredients, rolling out dough and assembling charcuterie boards.

Whether you’re scoring one as a beginner home cook or simply adding to a seasoned pro’s collection, you really can’t go wrong with these beautifully crafted chopping blocks.

Related: Hobby Lobby's Modular Coffee Table Is a 'Charming' Home Upgrade

Square Acacia

Aldi

Which Aldi Chopping Block Is Right for You?

Round, square, acacia or bamboo? How do you choose? Luckily, each option is beginner-friendly, so you really can’t go wrong. That said, acacia is the heavier, more durable choice with a rich color and distinctive grain, while bamboo is typically lighter and more sustainable, though it can be tougher on knife edges and show wear sooner.

As for the shape, let your counter space help make the decision. Square works especially well as an everyday prep station, while round can pull double duty as a snack platter when entertaining guests. Either way, both options add a natural, rustic touch that complements whatever else is sharing the space with them.

In case you’re wondering, Aldi doesn’t have the exact dimensions for this year’s boards listed, but previous models measured 15.75 inches across and 1.57 inches thick, whether square or round. And if you do snag one (or two), just remember to hand wash it, occasionally apply food-safe mineral oil to maintain its natural color and store it somewhere cool and dry to help prevent moisture buildup.

Otherwise, keep your eyes peeled this week, as they hit stores starting today and are sure to sell out fast. And while you’re there, don’t forget to check out Aldi’s Ceramic Food Containers, available for $7.99 and perfect for keeping all those freshly prepped ingredients neatly stored and fresh for later.

Related: Aldi's Rustic $10 Acacia Stand Adds Farmhouse Charm to Your Kitchen

Country star Ella Langley could hardly believe the latest milestone for her hit song “Choosin’ Texas.”

After Billboard revealed that the song had reached its 17th week at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, Langley shared the chart on her Instagram Story. 

She added a simple reaction: “17?!?” along with teary-eyed and mind-blown emojis. The short message showed just how surprised Langley was by the song’s continued success.

“Choosin’ Texas” has now spent 17 weeks at the top of the all-genre Billboard Hot 100, giving Langley one of the longest-running No. 1 songs in the chart’s history.

According to Billboard, the song now has the fourth-longest run at No. 1 since the Hot 100 began in August 1958.

Ella Langley performs during Stars for Second Harvest with ERNEST & Friends at the Ryman Auditorium on June 2, 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images

The only songs with longer runs are Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” which has led for 22 weeks, “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” by Shaboozey and Lil Nas X featuring Billy Ray Cyrus’ “Old Town Road,” which each spent 19 weeks at No. 1.

“Choosin’ Texas” is followed by Morgan Wallen’s “Last Night,” Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee featuring Justin Bieber’s “Despacito,” and Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men’s “One Sweet Day,” each with 16 weeks at the top.

Ella Langley can barely believe the latest success of “Choosin’ Texas.” pic.twitter.com/fSSCEHyyHy

— mydzn (@MadelaineDizon) August 12, 2026

The latest chart result adds another major achievement to Langley’s 2026 run.

“Choosin’ Texas” first reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in February. Since then, it has continued to hold the top spot while other major releases have entered the chart.

The Billboard Hot 100 combines U.S. streaming, radio airplay and music sales. That means the song’s long stay at No. 1 reflects its performance across several parts of the music industry.

The success of “Choosin’ Texas” is part of a larger year for Langley and her sophomore album, Dandelion. The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 after moving 169,000 equivalent album units in the United States during its first week.

Langley has continued to build her music career through collaborations as well. Her work with Morgan Wallen on “I Can’t Love You Anymore” remains a major chart hit.

Moreover, “Choosin’ Texas” recently climbed from No. 5 to No. 3 on the U.K. Official Singles Chart during its 30th week. It also moved from No. 8 to No. 5 on the Official Streaming Chart.

“Choosin’ Texas” is currently her only top 10 song on the U.K. Official Singles Chart. Her other charting songs there include “Be Her” and “Weren’t for the Wind.”

Langley’s chart success comes while she continues her 2026 Dandelion Tour.

The singer added 21 U.S. dates to the tour, extending the schedule through October. The new run begins Aug. 20 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and ends Oct. 31 in Saint Paul, Minnesota.

The extended tour includes stops at major venues such as Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado and the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, where Langley is scheduled to perform two nights.

Other stops include Newark, Charleston, Jacksonville, Tulsa, Lubbock, Des Moines and Lincoln. The expanded tour follows Langley’s run as an opening act on Morgan Wallen’s Still the Problem Tour.

With “Choosin’ Texas” now at 17 weeks at No. 1, Langley has another major chart milestone to add to an already busy year.

Related: Country Star Ella Langley Makes Billboard Charts History With 2 Songs

To solve today's New York Times Connections Sports Edition puzzle, you'll need to have a grasp on football terminology, NFL players, sports TV shows and the different roles you might find on a coaching staff.

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 Wednesday, August 12, 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

Today's NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Wednesday, August 12, 2026 / New York Times

New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

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

Hints for Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories on August 12, 2026

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

• Yellow: Pretending
• Green: Goes by one name
• Blue: Before the catch
• Purple: MLB trade deadline players

Here Are Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories

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

• Yellow: FAKE A FOUL
• Green: MONONYMIC ATHLETES
• Blue: COMES BEFORE "CATCH"
• Purple: PITCHERS DEALT AHEAD OF THIS YEAR'S MLB TRADE DEADLINE

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 #688 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• FAKE A FOUL: ACT, DIVE, EMBELLISH, FLOP
• MONONYMIC ATHLETES: ICHIRO, LEBRON, SERENA, TIGER
• COMES BEFORE "CATCH": BASKET, CONTESTED, FAIR, SHOESTRING
• PITCHERS DEALT AHEAD OF THIS YEAR'S MLB TRADE DEADLINE: EARLY, RAY, SKUBAL, WEAVER

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: NYT Connections Sports Edition Today: Hints and Answers for Tuesday, August 11, 2026

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

Some say it's the accessories that make the outfit, and earrings rank high on the list of go-to accents that you can rely on for both day and evening looks. The trick is finding a pair that's noticeable enough to make an impact, yet versatile enough to go with everything. With a pair of Apsvo Simulated Diamond Hoop Earrings, you'll always have an option for any occasion.

The dazzling pair shines in your choice of 18-karat gold-plated or white gold-plated metal. Both are dotted with two rows of round cubic zirconia stones that lend the earrings their realistic appearance. Normally they come in at $130 at Walmart, but right now you can pick up a pair for only $17. 

Apsvo Simulated Diamond Hoop Earrings, $17 (was $130) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Of course, genuine diamonds can set you back hundreds of dollars — and that's one of the reasons shoppers have turned to these earrings instead. They exude "the look of luxury," said a reviewer, and "sparkle like the stars" in any light. Another person added that they "look expensive" and have a "stunning" appearance. Several also noted that they feel comfortable and aren't overly heavy.

They're so much more than ordinary hoop earrings, too. The dual rows lend them substance and added shine without feeling overly showy or costumey. No need to reserve these for a special occasion, either. You can just as easily wear your hoops with jeans and sneakers as with a dress and heels. They'll add just the right amount of glint to any look!

And though we're a few months away from the holiday season, it's never too early to get in on a great deal for someone you love. They're just as thoughtful for birthdays or as a "just because" surprise to brighten up their day. At $113 off the retail price, the value is exceptional, and they even arrive packaged in a clear display box.

Shop More Deals

• Amy and Annette Lariat Ball Drop Necklace, $19 (was $38) at Walmart
• Cate & Chloe Simulated Diamond Tennis Bracelet, $24 (was $60) at Walmart
• Bokyan 2-Layer Jewelry Box, $20 (was $50) at Walmart

Related: Walmart's 'Dainty' Pink Heart-Shaped Bracelet With Simulated Diamonds Is Giving Y2K Vibes

Whether you're shopping for yourself or for a loved one, you can be confident that these Apsvo Simulated Diamond Hoop Earrings will leave a lasting impression. Take advantage of Walmart's sale price and pick them up in the color of your choice while the deal is still available.

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.

Rising country artist Stella Lefty has had a stacked run of festival performances this summer, captivating large audiences with her raw talent, infectious energy, confidence, and charisma. Though her career has taken off thanks to her viral hit, “Boston,” the 23-year-old singer-songwriter has proven that she has plenty more up her sleeve when it comes to entertaining a massive crowd. 

Her set lists are packed with fun, crowd-pleasing songs, while also offering a touch of nostalgia as she puts her own spin on familiar favorites. One of the songs that Lefty has been including in her set is Natasha Bedingfield’s 2004 pop smash “Unwritten,” giving a beloved hit a fresh country twist that’s fitting for long drives with the windows down.  

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

According to Billboard Canada, Lefty treated folks to a rendition of the bubbly tune during her first-ever performance at the Osheaga Festival in Montreal, Quebec, on Aug. 1. A video clip posted on YouTube shows her dressed in a long plaid sundress, and turning the classic song into an epic sing-along during the chorus as she invites the crowd to join in with her. Folks can be seen dancing throughout the clip while enjoying the moment. 

Co-written by Bedingfield, Danielle Brisebois, and Wayne Rodrigues, and released on Nov. 29, 2004, “Unwritten” was the third single from Bedingfield’s album of the same name. The song peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 2007. 

Though never a No. 1 hit in the U.S., “Unwritten” became a staple of the MTV generation, serving as the theme song for the reality television series The Hills. 

Lyrically, “Unwritten” is an uplifting ode to looking ahead at a future that has yet to be decided. The optimistic, uptempo tune encourages listeners to embrace the unexpected, take chances, and learn from mistakes. 

When Bedingfield collaborated on the song with her co-writers, she drew inspiration from a personal family experience after missing out on her younger brother Joshua’s 14th birthday. 

RELATED: 1999 Power Ballad, Lasting 53 Weeks on the Charts, Ranked Among ‘Favorite Country Love Songs of All Time’

“‘Unwritten’ was written with a 14-year-old in mind,” Bedingfield told The Guardian in 2024. “At that age, you’re desperate to be taken seriously, but at the same time, everyone is asking what you’re going to do. There’s this huge pressure to map out your future.”

Lefty’s performance of the early-2000s classic comes just weeks before the release of her debut album, Long Way Home, due out on Aug. 21 via Atlantic Outpost. Days later, she is set to make her Grand Ole Opry debut. The “Boston” singer-songwriter and Los Angeles-based artist will make her debut at the historic venue on Sept. 2.

Related: 1994 No. 1 Breakthrough Song, Written by a 22 Year Old, Is Still a Powerful Hit 32 Years Later

The next Colleen Hoovermovie adaptation is making its way to the big screen, and this one boasts a massive amount of star power with Anne Hathaway, Josh Hartnett and Dakota Johnson leading the cast. Hoover has become one of the most talked-about authors of the past decade, with her books dominating bestseller lists and inspiring passionate discussion across BookTok. Her success has naturally caught the attention of Hollywood, which has already lined up several adaptations of her work. Verity is the fourth Hoover novel to make the leap to the big screen—following It Ends With Us (2024), Regretting You (2025) and Reminders of Him (March 2026).

First published in 2018, Verity is one of Hoover’s most controversial and widely debated novels. Unlike her more straightforward romances, the book leans heavily into suspense, dark eroticism, unreliable narration and morally complicated characters. It’s a story that has kept readers speculating and theorizing long after they’ve turned the final page, making it an intriguing choice for a cinematic adaptation. The film promises to capture that same tension—and based on the new teaser trailer, Amazon MGM is leaning all the way in on the psychological-erotic-thriller angle.

The cast alone has already generated plenty of buzz, with Hathaway, Johnson and Hartnett leading a stacked ensemble under the direction of Michael Showalter—who previously directed Hathaway in 2024's The Idea of You.

Here's everything we know so far about Verity—including the cast, release date, official trailer and plot.

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

When will 'Verity' be released in theaters?

Verity hits theaters on Friday, October 2, 2026. The film was originally slated to be released on May 15, 2026, but Amazon MGM Studios pushed it back to its current fall slot—seen as a strategic move to drop the thriller in the heart of spooky season.

Is there a trailer for 'Verity'?

Yes! Amazon MGM Studios released the official trailer for Verity in on August 11.

What is 'Verity' about? The official movie poster for Verity, out Oct. 2, 2026

Amazon MGM Studios

Verity follows struggling writer Lowen Ashleigh, who is hired by Jeremy Crawford to finish his wife’s bestselling book series after a tragic accident leaves Verity Crawford unable to continue. What begins as a career-saving opportunity soon takes a darker turn. While reviewing Verity’s notes and manuscripts, Lowen stumbles across a disturbing document that forces her to question not only Verity’s state of mind but also what really happened in the Crawford family’s past.

As Lowen grows closer to Jeremy and the family's grief-stricken son, the line between Verity's fiction and reality begins to disintegrate. By the time Lowen finishes reading the manuscript, she has to make a choice: tell Jeremy what she found—or bury it forever.

The film stays largely faithful to Colleen Hoover's 2018 novel, which has been one of BookTok's most-debated reads for years. Hoover has called Verity her "darkest" book—and fans of the novel know exactly why.

Who is in the cast of 'Verity'?Anne Hathaway as Verity Crawford Anne Hathaway

Photo by Rick Kern/WireImage

The Devil Wears Prada star plays the bestselling author at the center of the mystery, whose unfinished autobiography sets the entire story in motion.

Josh Hartnett as Jeremy Crawford Jeremy Crawford

Photo by Cindy Ord/WireImage

Josh Hartnett plays Verity's husband Jeremy. After hiring Lowen, he finds himself drawn to her as his marriage unravels.

Dakota Johnson as Lowen Ashleigh

Dakota Johnson plays the struggling ghostwriter hired to finish Verity's book series. "I'm basically the bad guy, I think," she told Deadline. "It's so fun."

Other 'Verity' cast members

• Ismael Cruz Córdova as Corey (The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power)
• Brady Wagner as Crew Crawford (Broadway's Merrily We Roll Along)
• Irina Dvorovenko (And Just Like That…)
• K. K. Moggie (The Good Wife)
• Michael Abbott Jr. (The Drama)
• Asel Swango as Frida
• Daniel Echevarria as Alex

Related: Anne Hathaway Shares First Photo from ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’

Who is the director of 'Verity'?

Michael Showalter directs the movie. He's reteaming with Hathaway after the pair's 2024 Prime Video hit The Idea of You. As a director, he's best known for The Big Sick (2017) and The Eyes of Tammy Faye (2021)—the latter of which earned Jessica Chastain her Best Actress Oscar nomination. He's also a co-creator of HBO's Search Party and appeared in Wet Hot American Summer and its television sequel series.

Is 'Verity' based on a true story?

No, the book and movie are entirely a work of fiction. Hoover self-published the novel in 2018 and it was acquired by Grand Central Publishing in 2021. In 2023 alone, it sold over one million copies and spent months on The New York Times Best Sellers list.

That said, the novel's most haunting element—a writer's unfinished autobiographical manuscript filled with disturbing confessions—has fueled years of fan theories about whether Hoover drew inspiration from real-life author scandals. She hasn't named any specific influence, but the book's exploration of unreliable narrators and authorial identity is part of why it remains one of her most-discussed works.

How can I watch 'Verity'?

The movie will be available to watch in theaters on October 2, 2026. As an Amazon MGM Studios release, the film is expected to land on Prime Video following its theatrical window, though no streaming date has been announced. It will most likely be available to watch on video-on-demand (VOD) a month or so after its release.

Books to Read if You Loved 'Verity'

While you wait for the October 2 release, the book community has spent years recommending similar reads—psychological thrillers built around unreliable narrators and dark marriages—to Verity fans. Popular suggestions include:

• The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
• Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris
• The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen
• The Push by Ashley Audrain
• My Lovely Wife by Samantha Downing

Related: Next Up:

HBO is already setting its sights on season 2 of Harry Potter before the first has even premiered.

It's hard to believe nearly 25 years have passed since the release of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets — the movie, that is. Building on the first, this family-friendly sequel introduced a number of high-profile actors to portray the newly introduced characters.

One highlight was Sir Kenneth Branagh to bring Gilderoy Lockhart to life. And with the highlight anticipated series now taking shape, word just got out as to who will play the infamous Defense Against the Dark Arts professor on the small screen.

HBO took to social media on Tuesday, August 11 to reveal that Nicholas Hoult has been enlisted. After all, he was pretty darn good at playing the villain in last year's Superman movie...

"Magical Me indeed. Now, how many autographs would you like?" reads the caption of HBO and Harry Potter's recent joint Instagram post. "Nicholas Hoult has been cast as Gilderoy Lockhart in season two of the new HBO Original Harry Potter Series."

View this post on Instagram

Fans have since flooded the post's comments section to show their support for Hoult as HBO's Lockhart. "PERFECT CASTING 👏👏👏👏👏," wrote one Instagram user, while another person commented, "We, millennial Potterheads, approve of this casting 💯👏❤️."

There were a few "Potterheads" who seem to have reservations about the casting decision, based on some other comments left on the post. "This just feels odd," one person wrote, while another user commented, "Well. This is disappointing. Money>Morals."

Harry Potter Heads Back to Cinemas

In other Hogwarts news, Regal announced earlier this month that all eight Harry Potter films will be returning to theaters from August 27 to September 3, to celebrate 25 years of magic. So, what does this mean? Each day, there will be several showings of different Harry Potter films. And there’s only one thing that could make this better. Butterbeer! Find out more here.

To solve today’s Strands puzzle, think about the ways people give their time, money or resources to help others and support good causes.

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 #892 on Wednesday, August 12.

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: "Making a difference."

If that doesn't help, here's a hint for today's Strands game: Thank you for this bequest.

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:

• GI
• EN
• GR
• BE
• DO
• CO
• PI (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

Today's Spangram is a mix of vertical and horizontal.

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for August 12

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Wednesday, August 12, 2026, isPHILANTHROPY.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Wednesday, August 12?

• GIVE
• ENDOW
• GRANT
• BESTOW
• DONATE
• CONTRIBUTE
• SPANGRAM: PHILANTHROPY

Related: Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Tuesday, August 11, 2026

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

With the country icon’s Duncan Hines baking mixes, Southern-inspired frozen foods line, cookbook, servingware, and bakeware collection, it’s never been easier to dine with Dolly Parton. She’s found a way into nearly every part of the meal, from what’s cooking in the oven to what’s waiting on the table. Now, her Jeweled Mosaic 12-Piece Peach Butterfly Tableware Set makes it easy to bring country style to your table, too.

The complete place setting for four is currently $55 at Walmart, down from $70. Its colorful butterfly-and-floral pattern has a cheerful, vintage-inspired look that feels right at home in a country kitchen, whether you’re serving up one of Dolly’s recipes, a weeknight dinner, or something sweet after the main course.

Dolly Parton Jeweled Mosaic 12-Piece Peach Butterfly Tableware Set, $55 (was $70) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

This “bright” and “colorful” set makes a pretty convincing case for trading in plain white plates. The 12-piece collection serves four, with four 10.5-inch dinner plates, four 8-inch salad plates, and four 5.5-inch bowls, giving you the basics for a full place setting without having to mix and match. Each piece is made from porcelain and follows the same colorful jeweled mosaic motif, creating a coordinated look.

The plates and bowls all feature a delicate mosaic-inspired border made up of tiny geometric shapes, floral details, and jewel-like pops of yellow, coral, pink, blue, and green. The dinner and salad plates are finished with an ornate floral-and-butterfly arrangement, with the larger plates leaving a generous white center that keeps busy artwork from overwhelming the table. The butterfly motif is especially charming, appearing prominently on the salad plate and echoed throughout the floral border, while fine linework gives the whole design the look of an intricate hand-tiled mosaic.

Shop More Deals

• Dolly Parton Jeweled Mosaic 12-Piece Blue Butterfly Tableware Set, $70 at Walmart
• Dolly Parton Jeweled Mosaic Sharing Plate, $25 at Walmart
• Dolly Parton Jeweled Mosaic Butterfly Egg Plate, $20 (was $23) at Walmart

Despite the intricate, fine china-like design, this “very sturdy” set is made for everyday use. The porcelain construction is designed to maintain its color and vibrancy over time, while all 12 pieces are microwave- and dishwasher-safe, so reheating dinner and dealing with the aftermath doesn't require special treatment. The set also arrives in a gift box, making it a particularly fun option for a housewarming, a bridal shower, or a birthday gift for a Dolly superfan.

Related: Dolly Parton’s $11 Dish Towel Set Has the Sweetest Butterfly Design That’ll Bring a Touch of Country Charm to Your Home

If your table could use a little more color, whimsy, and country charm, the Dolly Parton Jeweled Mosaic 12-Piece Peach Butterfly Tableware Set checks all three boxes. Shop it for $55 at Walmart while it’s over 20% off!

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, think about words for holding onto feelings, different types of frogs, familiar sitcom characters with NBA surnames and words that begin with affirmative responses, among other things.

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 #1158 onWednesday, August 12, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Wednesday, August 12, 2026 / New York Times

New York Time

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 12

1. Still feeling it.
2. Ribbit!
3.  TV comedy characters.
4. There are hidden words at the front of these clues.

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 12:

1. HOLD ONTO, AS A FEELING: FOSTER, HARBOR, MAINTAIN, NURSE
2. KINDS OF FROGS: BULL, GREEN, POISON DART, TREE
3. NBA SITCOM SURNAMES: BENES, BING, LEMON, SCOTT
4. STARTING WITH AFFIRMATIVE RESPONSE: FINE PRINT, GOODBYE, GREAT WHITE, OKAYAMA

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 11, 2026

Today's NYT Wordle is something that refers to someone who is weak, timid, or lacking courage. 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 #1880 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 🎬

How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

There's one vowel, and one sometimes 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 no double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle

A hint for today's Wordle is:can refer to someone who’s ineffective and caves easily. There’s a fun series of graphic novels using this word in its title.

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 #1880 on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, is WIMPY.

-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)

Canadian rock would sound very different without Jim Kale's bass.

The founding member of The Guess Who turns 83 on Aug. 11, marking another milestone for a musician whose career helped take Canadian rock to an international audience. Kale played bass throughout the band's most successful years and contributed to the recordings that made the group one of the era's biggest names.

Born in Winnipeg in 1943, Kale was part of the group's early years before it became known as The Guess Who. The band evolved from Chad Allan and the Reflections, later called Chad Allan and the Expressions, before a record-label marketing idea gave the musicians the name that would follow them for decades.

The Guess Who found its first major American success with "These Eyes," which reached No. 6 in the United States and became the band's first million-selling single. Kale's bass could also be heard across albums including Wheatfield Soul, Canned Wheat and American Woman.

The latter album produced the song most closely associated with the band. Kale, Randy Bachman, Burton Cummings and Garry Peterson are all credited as co-writers of "American Woman," which began unexpectedly during a concert after Bachman started playing its now-famous guitar riff.

As the other musicians joined the spontaneous jam, Cummings began singing the words that came to him. The finished song spent three weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1970, making The Guess Who the first Canadian band to top the chart.

Kale left the group in 1972 but later returned to perform under The Guess Who name. He also joined Bachman, Cummings and Peterson for a 1983 reunion and the band's appearance at the 1999 Pan American Games. The group was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1987 and received a star on Canada's Walk of Fame in 2001.

After decades of performing, Kale retired from touring and handed his place in the group to bassist Rudy Sarzo. "Jim Kale, the founding bassist of the band, he's retired from the road. He passed me the torch," Sarzo recalled in 2018.

Though Kale is no longer on the road, his work remains part of The Guess Who's most celebrated recordings. At 83, his bass playing and role in "American Woman" continue to connect him to one of Canadian rock's greatest success stories.

Related: 1965 Iconic Ballad, Covered by Linda Ronstadt, Is Still an Inspirational Hit 61 Years Later

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

A room can have all the right furniture and decor and still feel like something is missing. Often, the finishing touch is an area rug, which can help define the space, add warmth and softness, and tie the rest of your decor together. And if you live with kids, pets, or a lot of everyday foot traffic, an easy-to-clean rug can make that decorative upgrade even more practical.

One popular option with more than 1,500 five-star reviews is the Soalmost Washable Abstract Area Rug. Right now, it's on sale for up to 44% off at Amazon, bringing the price down from $57 to just $32 for the 5-by-7-foot option in the gray-white print. 

Soalmost Washable Abstract Area Rug, $32 (was $57) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

The rug comes in 29 prints, including modern, vintage-inspired, and playful dog-themed options. Depending on the design you choose, there are also several sizes and shapes available, including rectangular, semicircular, runner, oval, and round options, making it easy to find one that works for your space.

The gray and white modern option, which currently has the steepest discount, features a contemporary abstract design with an organic, distressed texture. Its off-white, charcoal gray, and subtle silver tones blend together without harsh lines or bold contrasts, creating a neutral foundation that works especially well with modern, minimalist, transitional, and contemporary interiors.

Beyond its appearance, the rug is designed for everyday use. It's made from polyester with precision stitching and a non-slip backing to help keep it securely in place. The lightweight construction also makes it easier to move when needed, while the stain-resistant microfiber material holds up to the daily wear-and-tear that comes with busy homes and pets.

Related: Amazon's 3-Drawer Dresser Is 'Great for Small Spaces' and Comes in a Vintage-Style Floral Print

The low 0.24-inch pile is another practical feature, offering a soft, cushioned feel without being bulky. Its slim profile makes it easy to place under furniture and near entryways without creating an awkward bump. When it needs a refresh, you can vacuum or spot-clean it, and the washable design makes deeper cleaning easier.

Shoppers praised how well it balances style and function. One reviewer described the rug as “beautiful, soft, and easy to clean,” writing that it "instantly made the room feel warmer and more inviting. Another called it a “soft and stylish neutral rug that pulls the room together,” adding that it's  "perfect for lounging areas, bedrooms, or under a coffee table." 

Shop More Deals

• Garvee Beige Boho Washable Area Rug, $28 (was $40) at Amazon
• Iplusmall Washable Abstract Area Rug, $23 (was $33) at Amazon
• Cuzwlovita Washable Area Rug, $18 (was $26) at Amazon

For an area rug that brings together style, comfort, and everyday practicality, the Soalmost Washable Abstract Area Rug is a great pick. And with Amazon's current 44% discount, you can save $25 on this popular washable rug and give your space an easy refresh right now.

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.

Nearly 30,000 pounds of beef are being recalled after entering the United States without the proper inspection.

Florida-based Corte Argentino USA LLC is recalling approximately 29,628 pounds of raw beef imported from Argentina after missing a required import reinspection, the Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service announced.

The affected products were produced between May 15 and May 20, 2026, and have use or freeze-by dates between September 15, 2026, and September 20, 2026. The items were sold in Florida and Texas.

While there have been no confirmed reports of illness related to the affected meat, the Food Safety and Inspection Service urges consumers not to consume the products. The affected items should be discarded or returned.

What Items Are Being Recalled?

According to the Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service, the products subject to the recall bear Argentinian establishment number "EST. N° OF. 2025" and shipping mark "26644-AA."

• Various weight cardboard boxes containing “FrigorIfico Gorina SAIC” boneless beef “Top Sirloin Butt” (“Cuadril Sin Tapa”)
• Various weight cardboard boxes containing “FrigorIfico Gorina SAIC” boneless beef “Eye Round” (“Peceto”)
• Various weight cardboard boxes containing “FrigorIfico Gorina SAIC” boneless beef “Topside Cap Off” (“Nalga AD S/Tapa”)
• Various weight cardboard boxes containing “FrigorIfico Gorina SAIC” boneless beef “Flat” (“Carnaza Cuadrada”)
• Various weight cardboard boxes containing “FrigorIfico Gorina SAIC” boneless beef “Knuckle” (“Bola de Lomo”)

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

As someone who spent weeks searching for a new couch, I know how expensive they can be. Finding budget-friendly options feels nearly impossible when all of the costs rack up — but, thanks to Drew Barrymore's home collection, you can turn your house into a home without breaking the bank.. Walmart is currently selling the Beautiful Drew Modular Sectional Sofa for over $200 off, and it's already in over 25 customer carts.

The sectional sofa originally cost $1,006, but has been reduced to $798. Most sofas generally cost upwards of $1,500 making this piece an absolute steal. It's available in three colors: cream, taupe, and dark gray. The light gray is already out of stock, so you'll want to add this sofa to your cart quickly in order to take advantage of this deal. 

Beautiful Drew Modular Sectional Sofa, $798 (was $1,006) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Designed as a sectional, it measures 109.5 inches wide, 38 inches long, and 36.25 inches tall, and can seat you and a few friends. It comes with a matching ottoman that is 33.75 inches wide, 33.75 inches long, and 17.5 inches tall. The four-piece furniture consists of one left edge, one right wedge, one armless chair to place in between the ends, and the ottoman, which essentially serves as a chaise. Since it's modular, you can position the pieces as you see fit. To round it all out, it comes with three small accent pillows which will match whichever color you choose.

Made of a solid wood frame and polyester fabric, the interior cushions are filled with foam for added comfort and the body of the couch has sinuous springs for support. The fabric has a  ribbed stripe-like design that we think is perfect for modern and mid-century homes. Shoppers described the sofa as "perfect," "great quality," and "comfortable," adding that its firmness is the "perfect balance — not too soft, not too firm." 

The best part is that the couch material is described as stain-resistant and "easy to clean." One reviewer said, "spills, pet hair, and everyday messes wipe away easily, which has been a total lifesaver." Plus, customers love the ottoman, which makes the couch "super functional," "stylish," and "cozy." Due to the fact that the pieces separate, it's also a great option for those who live in a space without an elevator.

Shop More Deals 

• Cate & Chloe Sophia White Gold-Plated Halo Necklace, $18 (was $40) at Walmart
• Lazzo 3-Piece Patio Outdoor Set, $170 (was $270) at Walmart
• Bifanuo Resin Deck Box, $180 (was $209) at Walmart

You will have to assemble this sofa upon arrival, but shoppers noted that it will take 20 minutes or less. Therefore, you can have this gorgeous Drew Barrymore sofa in your living room in as little as a week. Score it while it's $200 off at Walmart! 

Related: Pyrex’s ‘Nostalgic’ Glass Baking Essential Has Over 1,600 5-Star Reviews, and It’s Just $6

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.

One of the most memorable story songs of the 1970s reached the top of the charts 52 years ago today, despite getting some rather important details about its subject spectacularly wrong.

Paper Lace's "The Night Chicago Died" hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 during the chart week ending Aug. 17, 1974. Written by Mitch Murray and Peter Callander, the song tells the dramatic tale of a bloody showdown between Chicago police and gangsters working for mob boss Al Capone.

There was just one rather large problem: the battle never happened. And the two British songwriters had never even been to Chicago.

"The Night Chicago Died" depicts a massive gun battle between Capone's men and Chicago police, with the narrator anxiously awaiting word about his policeman father. While the song was inspired by Chicago's Prohibition-era gangster history, there was never a confrontation resembling the one described in the lyrics.

Murray and Callander later acknowledged that they had never visited Chicago when they wrote the song and that much of what they knew about the city and the era came from gangster movies.

That might help explain one of the song's most notorious details: its reference to the "East Side of Chicago." While Chicago does have a neighborhood called East Side on the city's Far South Side, the city isn't conventionally divided into an East Side in the way the song suggests. Lake Michigan sits directly east of downtown.

In "Dave Barry's Book of Bad Songs," Barry's readers voted "The Night Chicago Died" among the selections that inspired particularly strong reactions, writing that the song "still arouses great hostility" for both its music and lyrics.

As one reader wrote, "There IS no east side of Chicago; just awfully, awfully big lake. Daddy would've needed scuba gear to walk the beat."

In "The Billboard Book of Number One Hits," author Fred Bronson recounts Murray admitting that the pair's research was "a little bit slipshod." Murray also explained that the song wasn't written with American listeners in mind. It was recorded by Paper Lace, a Nottingham, England, group that had recently found success in its home country.

"The Night Chicago Died" wasn't even Paper Lace's first Murray-Callander story song. The band previously recorded "Billy Don't Be a Hero," which became a No. 1 hit in the U.K. Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods then recorded their own version and beat Paper Lace to the American market, taking the song to No. 1 in the U.S.

There was no such obstacle for Paper Lace's follow-up.

"The Night Chicago Died" became the band's lone Billboard Hot 100 No. 1, while also reaching No. 3 in the U.K., No. 2 in Canada and No. 1 in Australia and New Zealand.

Chicago itself wasn't exactly thrilled by its fictional musical bloodbath.

After Paper Lace's song became a hit, a copy was reportedly sent to Chicago Mayor Richard Daley. According to accounts of the incident, the response from his office was considerably less than congratulatory.

The song's reputation hasn't necessarily improved with age.

Wayne Jancik was similarly amused by its relationship with reality in "The Billboard Book of One-Hit Wonders," writing that Paper Lace "rewrote a piece of history" with its account of the "mythical night."

"Their bubblegummy voices maintained that 100 officers died one mythical night in a big gun battle on Chicago's non-existent East Side. By evening's end, the forces of truth and justice triumph by either killing or arresting all the vermin, and the Windy City lived happily ever after," Jancik wrote.

More recently, Paste included "The Night Chicago Died" near the bottom of its ranking of 1974's No. 1 hits, placing it No. 28 out of 34, writing, "'The Night Chicago Died' is basically a novelty song but a good-sounding one, so that counts for something, I suppose. Chicago mayor Richard Daley hated the song, and one of his staffers allegedly said that Paper Lace should 'jump in the Chicago River, placing your heads under water three times and surfacing twice.'"

Yet none of that stopped Americans from buying the record. "The Night Chicago Died" earned a Gold certification in the U.S., and its bizarre combination of gangster mythology, historical invention and irresistible pop storytelling gave Paper Lace the biggest American hit of its career.

Fifty-two years later, it remains an unusual piece of chart history: two English songwriters who had never been to Chicago wrote a song about a Chicago battle that never happened, and Americans took it all the way to No. 1.

Related: 1963 Bob Dylan Song, Ranked Among 'Greatest Songs of All Time,' Went to No. 1 For Beloved Folk Trio

It goes without saying that Eddie Van Halen was responsible for some of the most iconic guitar riffs in rock history...but which hard rock heroes did he look up to?

Over the course of his career, Van Halen credited a number of guitarists with influencing his own sound, from Eric Clapton to Tony Iommi to Allan Holdsworth, per Rock and Roll Garage. Another pioneering axe man who made a huge impression on Van Halen, perhaps unsurprisingly, was Deep Purple's Ritchie Blackmore.

As Van Halen explained in an interview with Billboard magazine (per the BBC), it was Blackmore who came up with one of his favorite guitar riffs of all time: "Burn." The opening track from Deep Purple's 1974 album of the same name, "Burn" was co-written by Blackmore and lead singer David Coverdale.

The lyrics tell a very Deep Purple-esque, supernatural kind of story:

The sky is red, I don't understand
Past midnight I still see the land
People are sayin' the woman is damned
She makes you burn with a wave of her hand

The city's ablaze, the town's on fire
The woman's flames are reaching higher
We were fools, we called her liar
All I hear is "Burn!"

"I wrote about half a dozen sets of lyrics for this song — I was that keen!" Coverdale told Classic Rock magazine. "The final words to 'Burn' — and also the words to the 'Stormbringer' song for the next album, for idle curiosity — came about because I was just trying to please Ritchie [Blackmore], I guess. These lyrics aren’t the stuff I would normally write; I looked upon them as science-fiction poems."

In the same Classic Rock interview, bassist Glenn Hughes reflected on the unlikely song that inspired Blackmore to write "Burn" (allegedly).

"Blackmore came up with that classic rock riff, but there’s a lot of talk about it being ripped from something that was written in the forties," he said. "[George Gershwin’s] 'Fascinating Rhythm,' wasn’t it? I think it could be from that. Every artist borrows from other artists — but this is a classic example of where Ritchie may have taken something from the forties or fifties." ("Fascinating Rhyhm" was actually written by Gershwin in 1924.)

Paul Natkin / Getty Images

Drummer Ian Paice called "Burn" a "pretty well-played track."

"It’s got a rapid pace about it," Paice explained. "I’ve always said that playing fast is a lot easier than playing slow, because if you play something fast and you screw up, nobody really hears it. But if you play slow and you screw something up, then everybody hears it."

Over half a decade later, "Burn" remains one of the most beloved Deep Purple tracks ever, and the track's influence is well-documented. As Tom Taylor of Far Out recently wrote, "Burn" is part of the reason why Van Halen's guitar playing "sounded so unfathomable."

"When he was riffing away in Van Halen, his most notable characteristic was stunning speed," Taylor pointed out. "Similar quick-fire aptitude is displayed by Ritchie Blackmore here, but it is all essentially a two-finger idea. That allows for incredible efficiency across the fret. If you’re aiming for the 196BPM [beats per minute] that Blackmore achieves with this blistering banger, then you’d better know a few shortcuts."

Related: 1968 Classic, Recorded in Two Takes, Turned a Country Song Into a Timeless Hard Rock Anthem

When Hulk Hogan faced Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III in 1987, it not only became one of the most iconic matches in wrestling history, it set the tone for how future WWE bouts would be presented. A new ranking of Hulk Hogan’s wrestling matches names the 1987 contest, which featured one of the most famous bodyslams in the sport’s history, his best of all time. Rewatching the match, it’s hard to imagine anything better.

The Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant WrestleMania III match had everything the growing WWE audience wanted: two enormous personalities, a massive championship, a personal rivalry and a seemingly impossible challenge for the hero at the center of Hulkamania.

Muscle & Fitness names the legendary ’80s bout Hogan’s best of all time, writing:

“Why is it so great? While the 7’4” giant was past his peak, he still more than delivered, owning his role as the intimidating, seemingly unstoppable force that would surely derail Hulkamania. In the end, however, The Hulkster didn’t just pin his bigger foe, he also executed the most famous bodyslam in history and set the standard for how WrestleMania main events should be presented to the mat-loving masses.”

Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant Was the Ultimate 1980s Rivalry @wwe_highlights06

Hulk Hogan iconic body slam to Andre The Giant at WrestleMania III #wwe #wrestlemania #hulkhogan #andrethegiant #wwetiktok #wrestling #fyp

♬ son original - 💪Catch💪

Billed at 7’4” and more than 500 pounds, Andre the Giant was more a mythical figure in professional wrestling than a human. Hogan, meanwhile, had become the larger-than-life face of WWE. Putting the two together created an immediate physical contrast: the unstoppable giant against the superstar who had become synonymous with WWE’s expanding popularity.

The match also had the kind of buildup that made wrestling feel like can’t-miss television. Once portrayed as Hogan’s friend, Andre the Giant vs. Hulk Hogan felt personal rather than solely like a professional competition.

With enormous buildup before the match, the two athletes delivered, and more. The defining moment came when Hogan lifted Andre and delivered the infamous bodyslam heard around the world.

The Bodyslam That Became Wrestling History

It wasn’t just Hogan’s bold move that made this one of the defining moments in wrestling history. It was the visual of the larger-than-life giant being humbled to the ground by the new face of the sport.

Hogan went on to defeat Andre, cementing his place as the heroic centerpiece of WWE at the height of Hulkamania.

How WrestleMania III Changed WWE @onthisdayinwwe

An emotional Hulk Hogan talks about the death of Andre the Giant on Saturday Night: “When Andre was buried, I felt part of me was buried with him” And he seems to confirm the rumours that the Eighth Wonder of the World has a son... This would be The Giant - later known in WWE as The Big Show Originally, Paul Wight was going to be known as Andre The Giant Jr, seeking revenge on Hogan for his father's loss at WrestleMania 3 A few years ago, Wight explained to T95: The Rock Station: “That’s how they did things back in the day "When you get introduced, you’ve got to have some kind of legacy and validity of who they are. And that was one of the ways they did it "Arn Anderson wasn’t really Ole Anderson’s nephew — stuff like that" Last week, Andre's daughter posted on Instagram about Hulk's passing: "Hulk Hogan and André the Giant helped define an entire era of professional wrestling "From their iconic showdown at WrestleMania III to the moments that followed, their story was one of the greatest sporting events of all time "On behalf of André’s family and those who knew him best, we send our love and gratitude to Hulk Hogan— for the memories, the moments, and the legacy they built together "Two icons. Forever connected" 📺YouTube/KrisZ891979 #OnThisDayInWWE

♬ original sound - OnThisDayInWWE

After WrestleMania III, the sport would never be the same. The match demonstrated how effectively WWE could turn a wrestling match into an entertainment spectacle.

Though the number has been contested, the reported attendance of 93,173 at the Pontiac Silverdome became part of the mythology surrounding the event. While the actual number was debatable, the scale of the event was undisputed.

WrestleMania III showed that WWE’s biggest matches should feel like cultural events. The wrestlers weren’t just competing in the ring; they were creating storylines and defining moments designed to be remembered.

The Hogan-Andre matchup became the blueprint for future WWE main events: the perfect combination of an unmistakable hero, an enormous villain, a personal backstory, a massive audience and a visual moment never to be forgotten.

Why Hulk Hogan and Andre the Giant Are Still Remembered

Decades later, the match remains one of the defining memories of 1980s wrestling. Fans could become a part of the spectacle without any knowledge of the sport, making it one of the most accessible and talked-about events of the 1980s.

Over 40 years later, it’s now been named Hulk Hogan’s best.

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

To solve today’s NYT Mini Crossword puzzle, brush up on women’s basketball, Greek mythology, Hawaiian greetings, modern slang, bird behavior, baseball legends, common expressions, mythical creatures and abbreviations, among other things.

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 Wednesday, August 12, 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 🎬

Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Wednesday, August 12, 2026

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

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: Caitlin Clark's league, for short — HINT: Starts with the letter "W"

5 Across: Odysseus's hiding places when entering the city of Troy —HINT: Ends with the letter "E"

7 Across: Hawaiian "hi" — HINT: Starts with the letter "A"

8 Across: Personal opinions, in modern parlance — HINT: Starts with the letter "T"

9 Across: Where a nuthatch hatches — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"

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

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: "Come again?" — HINT: Starts with the letter "W"

2 Down: Hall-of-Fame pitcher ___— HINT: Ends with the letter "N"
3 Down: Unloaded? — HINT: Starts with the letter "B"

4 Down: What a phoenix rises from — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

6 Down: The "E" of NE — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Wednesday, August 12, 2026

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

NYT Mini Across Answers

1 Across: Caitlin Clark's league, for short — WNBA

5 Across: Odysseus's hiding places when entering the city of Troy —HORSE

7 Across: Hawaiian "hi" — ALOHA

8 Across: Personal opinions, in modern parlance — TAKES

9 Across: Where a nuthatch hatches — NEST

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: "Come again?" — WHAT

2 Down: Hall-of-Fame pitcher ___— NOLAN

3 Down: Unloaded? — BROKE

4 Down: What a phoenix rises from — ASHES

6 Down: The "E" of NE — EAST

Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Tuesday, August 11, 2026