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If your house plants have been thriving but their planters need a little upgrade, consider this your sign to make that jump. Refreshing your space for fall, both indoors and out, doesn’t always have to be a full overhaul. Sometimes it’s the small changes that really add more flare and personality. For example, upgrading your planters and pots can bring a fun decor element to your shelves and windowsills. 

If you’ve been looking for planters that radiate personality, we’ve got you covered. Instead of sticking with basic neutral pots, these adorable Walmart planters lean into playful designs that bring a little joy into even the most humdrum days. They’re all $10 or less, so you can add them to your collection without breaking the bank.

Courtesy of Walmart

Perk up your plant shelf or windowsill with this bow-accented little planter. At just $8, it adds just the right amount of charm to your home without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for anyone who loves the coquette aesthetic, but if bows aren’t your thing, the same planter is available in a cute cherry design, too. 

Courtesy of Walmart

Mushrooms have become a staple of cottagecore decor, from cozy comforters to little end table lamps, and this planter adds just the right amount of enchantment to your home. Both durable and compact, this planter can be used both indoors and outdoors. As one reviewer wrote, “The pot is super cute and sturdy. It’s a little weighted as it’s made out of stone and not cheap plastic. There’s even a hole with a plug for drainage.” 

Courtesy of Walmart

The striking black and white checkerboard design on this planter brings a bold sort of playfulness to your plantscape. It’s modern, graphic, and crisp, with a high gloss shine that’ll make it stand out amongst all your other little pots. Measuring just 6 inches, it can support house plants without overwhelming your space. 

Related: Walmart’s Sleek 6-Pack of Stackable Storage Bins Are Made for Fall Organization

At the end of the day, the smallest changes can totally pull an indoor or outdoor space together. These under-$10 ceramic planters from Walmart are proof. Your home is your oasis — both you and your plants deserve it! 

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.

Jon Hamm is embracing being a dad for the first time at age 55.

The Mad Men star opened up about how his life is changing as he becomes a parent during a recent appearance on the Today show.

“I’ve been around kids my whole life. I’ve been a teacher, my nieces and nephews and all that stuff. I’m excited to start our own family ― it’s thrilling. And terrifying,” he said with a laugh.

It was announced last month that Hamm and his 38-year-old wife, Anna Osceola, were expecting their first child together. The couple first met during the series finale of Mad Men in 2015, but didn’t start dating until 2020. Osceola and Hamm got engaged in February 2023 and married just a few months later, in June of that year.

When asked about having his first child, the actor shared his positive outlook.

“It’s great,” he said. “The best thing I keep hearing is how much it changes you for the better. I’m very excited.”

In 2024, Hamm spoke to The Hollywood Reporter about his upbringing and whether he would ever consider adding to his family.

“It’s not lost on me that I’m 53. I will be the old dad, but so it goes. It could be a good thing. We’ll see,” he said.

The Golden Globe Award actor shared that his parents’ divorce made him turn his back on marriage, but everything changed when he met Osceola.

“Obviously, my parents were not married long,” said Hamm, whose mom died when he was 10, “so I don’t have a model to look at and go, ‘Oh, this is how one finds happiness.’ I just knew at a certain point I wanted to be with this person. But when I proposed, I was terrified. I was like, ‘What am I doing?’”

Hamm is currently starring in MGM+’s American Hostage.

ESPN’s College GameDay is heading to Knoxville, Tenn., this week for a historic matchup between two of college football’s biggest programs.

The popular pregame show will broadcast from the University of Tennessee on Saturday, Sept. 26, ahead of No. 1 Texas’ showdown with No. 14 Tennessee. The game marks the first regular-season meeting between the Longhorns and Volunteers.

The teams have played three previous times, but all three meetings came in the Cotton Bowl on New Year’s Day.

Here’s everything to know about where College GameDay is this week, what time it starts and who will serve as the celebrity guest picker.

ESPN’s College GameDay will be in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 26, for Texas vs. Tennessee.

The first two hours of the show, from 9 to 11 a.m. ET, will originate from the Ayres Hall Lawn on the University of Tennessee campus.

Then there’s a change of scenery for the final hour. From 11 a.m. until noon ET, College GameDay will move inside Neyland Stadium, leading directly into the Texas-Tennessee kickoff at noon ET on ABC.

This will be the 13th time Tennessee has hosted College GameDay on campus and the Volunteers’ 29th appearance on the show overall. Texas will make its second appearance of the 2026 season and 30th all-time.

College GameDay begins at 9 a.m. ET on Saturday, Sept. 26, and runs until noon.

The show will air on ESPN and ESPNU and will also be available on Disney+ and the ESPN App.

Fans looking to start even earlier can watch Countdown to GameDay beginning at 8:20 a.m. ET on ESPN’s YouTube and Facebook channels and the ESPN App.

Knoxville native and Jackass star Johnny Knoxville will serve as this week’s celebrity guest picker.

Knoxville announced his appearance during The Pat McAfee Show ahead of Saturday’s matchup.

There will be another famous Knoxville connection on the show as well. Tennessee legend Peyton Manning is scheduled to join Pat McAfee for his “Kicking is Easy” contest.

That creates an unusual family wrinkle for Saturday’s showdown: Manning’s nephew Arch Manning, the son of his older brother Cooper Manning, will lead Texas against his uncle’s alma mater.

Tennessee coach Josh Heupel is also scheduled to join College GameDay live from inside Neyland Stadium before the game.

Rece Davis hosts College GameDay alongside Kirk Herbstreit, Desmond Howard, Pat McAfee and Nick Saban, with Pete Thamel, “Stanford Steve” Coughlin, Jen Lada and Jess Sims also part of the 2026 cast.

After College GameDay wraps, No. 1 Texas and No. 14 Tennessee kick off at noon ET on ABC in their first regular-season meeting.

Related: Iconic Star Announced as Host of ‘Fear Factor’ Reboot; Casting Underway

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From the legendary riff in “Defying Gravity” to the unforgettable Ozdust Ballroom number, Wicked is a cultural phenomenon filled with heartwarming and hilarious scenes, catchy songs, and emotional storylines. The Broadway musical and movie adaptation may be slightly different, but the one thing that remains the same is the iconic characters, most notably Elphaba and Glinda. While they started out as rivals, their dynamic blossomed into a beautiful friendship that has captured the hearts of many. 

@arianagrande & @Cynthia Erivo perform a song about @Wicked Movie 🫧 🩷🧹💚 #FallonTonight #TonightShow #CynthiaErivo #ArianaGrande #Elphaba #Glinda #Wicked

If you want to bring some Wicked charm into your home, check out this 2-Piece Icon Jacquard Spooky Dish Towels Set at Anthropologie. Featuring one pink towel and one green towel, this set will bring major Elphaba and Glinda energy to your kitchen in a chic way. And right now, you can snag it on sale for less than $20! The set normally retails for $40 and was on sale for $30, but Anthropologie is currently offering an extra 50% off sale items for a limited time, bringing the price down to just $15. That’s less than $8 a towel! 

Courtesy of Anthropologie

If you’re a Wicked fan, you can instantly tell that these towels represent Elphaba and Glinda. Adorned with star-tipped wands all over the fabric, the bubblegum pink towel has a ton of whimsy. The green towel has more of a moody feel, featuring pointy witch hats everywhere. While the two towels have contrasting colors, motifs, and aesthetics, they complement each other just like the iconic dynamic duo.

“I had to get these for my niece who is Wicked-obsessed,” one reviewer said. “She loved them!” The same reviewer described them as “fun.” A second customer noted that they’re “super cute and great quality.” 

While this towel set is undoubtedly fitting for Halloween, it’s something you can keep out year-round to add a touch of Broadway magic to your home. You can drape them over your oven or dishwasher handle to accent your kitchen, or even keep them on a rack in the bathroom. 

• Halloween Icon Stemless Martini Glass, $8 (was $18) at Anthropologie
• Halloween 2-Pack of Icon Taper Candles, $13 (was $32) at Anthropologie
• Ivy Cotton Printed Ruffle Pillow, $35 (was $88) at Anthropologie

The wand and hat patterns are tufted and woven directly into the towels, creating a seamless design. Made of 100% cotton, the fabric is incredibly absorbent and breathable. Just as functional as they are decorative, these towels easily soak up moisture, ready to handle wet hands, spills, and washed dishes. They also dry easily when hung up, as the cotton fabric promotes air circulation. 

For peace of mind, these towels are Oeko-Tex certified, meaning that they’ve been tested for and are free of over 1,000 harmful and toxic substances. They’re a great choice for those with allergies or sensitive skin, as cotton is a hypoallergenic material. Caring for these towels is easy. Whenever you need to give them a refresh, just toss them into the washing machine with warm water and tumble dry them on low afterwards. 

These dish towels measure 28 inches long and 20 inches wide. If you love the Wicked-inspired design but prefer something a little smaller, you can grab this 4-Piece Icon Jacquard Spooky Dishcloth Set in the same style, which is currently on sale for just $13. The four-piece set is also available in a classic Halloween-themed style, featuring orange and black towels with ghost and cat motifs. 

Related: Anthropologie’s Colorful $20 Stone Necklace Makes Even Basic Outfits Look High Fashion

If you love all things Wicked-related, don’t hesitate to snag the 2-Piece Icon Jacquard Spooky Dish Towels Set at Anthropologie while it’s still on sale for just $15. Be sure to hurry because this fantastic price will only be available 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.

With the Jonas Brothers’ throwback tour, Burning Up All Over Again, in full swing, Nick Jonas, 34, is back on the road with his brothers Kevin and Joe. Youngest brother Franklin Jonas is even joining them for select dates. It has been 18 years since the band’s first Burning Up Tour, and while Nick has had plenty of time to learn how to manage his Type 1 diabetes away from home, he admits it’s still not always easy.

“Throughout my 20-plus years of living with it, I’ve learned a lot of things,” Jonas said in an exclusive interview with Parade. “The biggest lesson is that sometimes things are just a little beyond your control. You could be as on top of it as humanly possible, looking at, in my case, my Dexcom G7 every five minutes. My body is just going to react in certain ways that are a little unpredictable.”

Jonas says he stays grounded by caring for his physical, mental, and emotional health, and by not putting too much pressure on himself. He also notes that diabetes burnout is finally getting the attention it deserves.

“Diabetic burnout is something that is coming more and more into the conversation, and people are really embracing that it is a real thing,” he said. “It’s fatigue from just dealing with the ins and outs of it, but also from one day being really different from the next.”

Life on tour brings its own kind of structure. “The days are obviously always different, traveling to a different city,” Jonas explained. “But there’s a consistency to getting up on stage three to four times a week and exerting that energy, which is really great. It’s like a workout in a lot of ways. Feeling the energy from the crowd actually does help emotionally and physically.”

Two things have made the biggest difference since his diagnosis, he says. The first is information. “I didn’t have nearly as much data to pull from back then,” he recalled. “That simply comes from the frequency of the glucose readings I’m getting now.”

The second is his family, who took a course on how to react in certain situations so they wouldn’t be helpless if something happened. “It’s not all just emergency situations, but even how to be a support system in moments, or even speak the language,” he said. “That goes a long way for those of us living with the disease day in and day out.”

He also points to clean eating and regular exercise, and he is candid that the emotional side matters just as much. “I’m a big advocate for mental health awareness alongside Type 1 diabetes, and I speak to a great therapist frequently,” he said. “I’ve found that to be a really great resource, because the mind and the body are definitely connected.”

Jonas hopes he can be that kind of inspiration for others living with Type 1 who are chasing big dreams, just as others have been for him.

“I think it’s possible for everybody,” he said. “From the minute I came out of the hospital, even though I was so young and probably had no idea what I was talking about, I said I was going to use whatever platform I have to encourage people to keep going and keep doing what they want to do with their life.”

Scarlett Johansson is back! In case fans were still feeling let down when she skipped a prestigious movie premiere earlier this year…

The Oscar-nominated actress, 41, has been busy filming yet another feature, The Exorcist: Martyrs, but just took time to reunite with Adam Driver and Miles Teller for the U.S. premiere of their new drama film.

After all, Paper Tiger takes place in New York, so it was only fitting to have all three of its stars, plus director James Gray, on hand for the New York Film Festival screening Friday, September 25.

Johansson reliably stunned in a flashy dress on the red carpet, posing with a suited-up Driver, 42, and Teller, 39, on either side for a number of photos. Check out one example below.

Johansson’s husband Colin Jost was also by her side on the red carpet for several pics. Paper Tiger hits U.S. theaters on November 13 and is already getting awards buzz this season. It holds an impressive 85% average critics’ rating based on Rotten Tomatoes based on 60 reviews.

Here’s the film’s logline: “Two brothers pursue the American Dream but get entangled in a dangerous Russian mafia scheme that terrorizes their family.”

Johansson joined her co-stars and director after the NYFF opening screening for a panel onstage, per Variety, fresh off traveling into town from her international Exorcist shoots.

“I’m hallucinating,” she said. “It’s 5 in the morning, which is a great time to be doing an interview on stage.”

Earlier this month, Parade reported on a throwback film starring Johansson opposite Bill Murray, which holds a 95% Rotten Tomatoes score.

Lost in Translation is reportedly based on Sofia Coppola‘s own divorce from Spike Jonze and her lonely travels through Japan. Find out more here.

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

Evenings spent outside enjoying the crisp air deserve a magical glow to set the mood. Garden lights are one of the best ways to illuminate patios, porches, and pathways post-sunset, and if you’re looking to refresh your home’s outdoor spaces for fall, Walmart has a deal on whimsical solar lights worth checking out. 

Now just $15, the Charkee Hanging Solar Lantern is marked down from the usual $20 price in both the butterfly and hummingbird designs. This simple patio upgrade can make outdoor evenings feel incredibly enchanting with delicate, nature-inspired lighting that casts gentle patterns without needing cords or outlets.

Courtesy of Walmart

The intricate cut-out metal body of each lantern boasts designs adorned with either butterflies landing on roses or hummingbirds sipping nectar from an array of florals. Charged by the built-in solar panel during daylight, it projects a gorgeous illuminated pattern at night that creates a cozy glow and adds cottagecore-inspired charm without any effort.

Easy to hang using the built-in hook, you can place this lantern on a shepherd’s hook, tree branch, pergola, or porch railing to illuminate outdoor spaces. You can also set it on any flat surface as a tabletop accent. The weather-resistant design has an IP65 waterproof rating, so you don’t have to worry about showers or humidity damaging it.

Courtesy of Walmart

Reviewers simply couldn’t say enough about how enchanting this light looks, and several shared that they’ve purchased multiple lanterns to place around their backyard. “The pattern it displays is awe-inspiring,” one shared. 

Though the glow casts a design when hanging, one shopper noted that when set on a flat surface, “it displays a beautiful pattern on tables and floors.” Another said the lantern looks “so pretty at night,” but added that it also looks great as porch decor during the day.

Related: Walmart’s Plush Toile Pumpkin Brings French Country Charm to Your Fall Decor

Now just $15, the Charkee Hanging Solar Lantern is a beautiful, simple, and affordable way to update your porch or patio this autumn. Add it to your cart now while the deal lasts!

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.

The famous theme song from Robert Altman’s 1970 film M*A*S*H* has a surprising story behind it: Mike Altman, the director’s 14-year-old son, wrote the lyrics to “Suicide Is Painless.” Veteran songwriter Johnny Mandel wrote the music.

The song became closely linked to M*A*S*H* after appearing in the movie and later becoming the theme of the long-running television series. The University of Michigan’s Robert Altman archive says Michael Altman wrote the lyrics in 1969, when he was only 14. An original draft signed by him is also part of the Altman Archive.

That detail gives the 1970 film another remarkable connection to its history. M*A*S*H* is now recognized as one of the notable comedy films of its era, and Collider currently places it at No. 66 on its list of the 75 Best Comedy Movies of All Time. It describes the movie as a mix of black comedy and anti-war ideas, centered on medical staff working at a field hospital during the Korean War.

Silver Screen Collection / Getty Images

“Suicide Is Painless” was created for a specific moment in the film. The song was used during the storyline involving Walter “Painless Pole” Waldowski, a dentist who believes he should die after experiencing impotence. The medical staff around him turn the situation into an elaborate staged event.

The song was first intended for that scene, but Robert Altman later decided it worked well enough to serve as the film’s main theme. The song plays during the opening credits, while the movie introduces the Mobile Army Surgical Hospital and its characters.

The film version featured session singers, including John Bahler, Tom Bahler, Ron Hicklin and Ian Freebairn-Smith. The song was released as a single in 1970 under the name “The Mash.”

The lyrics were written by Mike Altman, while Mandel supplied the music. The official AFI catalog also lists “Suicide Is Painless” with music by Johnny Mandel and lyrics by Mike Altman.

The song later became even more familiar when M*A*S*H* was adapted into a television series. The CBS show premiered in 1972 and ran for 11 seasons before ending in 1983. The TV series used instrumental versions of “Suicide Is Painless” as its theme.

M*A*S*H* is set during the Korean War and follows surgeons and other medical workers dealing with wounded soldiers near the front lines. Instead of presenting war as a simple action story, the movie mixes serious situations with dark humor and jokes.

Roger Ebert noted that the comedy works partly because the characters are surrounded by blood, injuries and death. Their jokes and pranks become ways of dealing with the pressure of their work. He also wrote that the movie’s humor depends heavily on its timing, tone, acting and direction.

The Hollywood Reporter’s original 1970 review similarly described M*A*S*H* as a tough and bawdy comedy that uses its harsh setting as part of its humor. The review praised Altman’s direction, Ring Lardner Jr.’s script and the cast’s improvisational delivery.

The film was also a major awards success. It received five Academy Award nominations and won for Best Adapted Screenplay. It won the Palme d’Or at the 1970 Cannes Film Festival and was later selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress.

The song had a life of its own beyond the movie. The University of Michigan archive notes that Mike Altman earned more than a million dollars in royalties from the song, while Robert Altman said his directing fee for the film was $70,000. 

“Suicide Is Painless” also earned recognition in its own right. It was included in the American Film Institute’s 100 Years…100 Songs list at No. 66.

Mike Altman was just 14 when he wrote those lyrics in 1969. The film premiered in New York on Jan. 25, 1970, and the song that began as part of one scene became one of the most recognizable pieces of music connected to the M*A*S*H* franchise.

Related: Beloved Series, Which Lasted 6 Years, Ranked ‘Greatest’ CW Show of All Time’

The year 1984 saw the release of numerous classics: Ghostbusters, The Terminator, The Karate Kid. The list goes on.

Another PG-rated hit from that year was A Passage to India, directed by renowned British filmmaker David Lean and starring big names such as Judy Davis and Peggy Ashcroft — the latter receiving a whole lot of recognition for her performance.

For starters, Ashcroft went on to win an Academy Award in the following year’s Best Supporting Actress category. And the epic drama film still holds up today — maintaining a 77% average critics’ rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which offers the following synopsis:

“Based on the renowned E.M. Forster novel, this expansive period drama centers on the changing dynamic between British colonials and native locals in India during the 1920s. When an outing to explore scenic caves ends in English tourist Adela Quested (Davis) accusing Indian doctor Aziz Ahmed (Victor Banerjee) of rape, the incident results in a major court case, one that reinforces tensions between the British Empire and the growing movement towards Indian independence.”

Ashcroft, meanwhile, was widely considered one of the century’s greatest British stage actresses., per Rotten Tomatoes. Her most famous early role was as Desdemona opposite Paul Robeson‘s Othello in the early 1940s, and her first film was the British Gaumont production The Wandering Jew (1933).

Alfred Hitchcock fans might remember Ashcroft as the quiet village wife in The Thirty Nine Steps (1935). The classic spy thriller has since entered The Criterion Collection, with a story that “follows Richard Hannay (Robert Donat) as he stumbles upon a conspiracy that thrusts him into a hectic chase across the Scottish moors—a chase in which he is both the pursuer and the pursued—as well as into an unexpected romance with the cool Pamela (Madeline Carroll),” per Criterion’s website.

Throughout her 65-year career, Ashcroft starred opposite legendary leading men such as Laurence Olivier. And on the small screen, she is best remembered for the hit miniseries The Jewel in the Crown (1984-85).

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 looking for the perfect subtle piece of fall decor, Target has a $10 find worth checking out. Joanna Gaines’ Hearth and Hand with Magnolia Fall Mini Yellow Aspen Wreath is marked down from $15 for a limited time, and it’s a great fit for anyone who wants to make their home feel a little more seasonal without turning decorating into a bigger project than it needs to be.

The wreath measures 12 inches high by 12 inches wide and 3 inches deep, so it’s much smaller than a traditional wreath. It’s made of polyester and plastic, with layered golden-yellow aspen leaves around the circular frame and a loop on the back for easy hanging.

Courtesy of Target

Its petite size gives you a lot more flexibility than a full-size wreath. You could hang it above a bar cart, on a kitchen wall, or in an entryway where a larger piece might look awkward. It’s also a nice way to fill one of those little blank spots around the house without moving any other decor.

One reviewer said it offers the “perfect touch of fall,” calling it “beautiful” and “so realistic,” while another said, “It’s well crafted, [has a] beautiful color, and it was very easy to set up.” A third shopper added, “It has a sturdy design and gorgeous foliage look.”

Related: Welcome Fall to Your Front Door With Target’s ‘Beautiful’ Plum Berry Wreath

It’s also refreshingly low-effort. There’s no assembly to deal with, no lights to plug in, and no need to build an entire display around it. You can hang it in a few minutes, which makes it especially appealing if you like seasonal decor but don’t necessarily love the process of decorating.

• Hearth and Hand with Magnolia Green Leaf Wreath, $24 (was $35) at Target
• Garvee 20-Inch Fall Wreath, $36 (was $70) at Target
• Threshold 22-Inch Jasmine Wreath, $23 (was $30) at Target

With the Hearth and Hand with Magnolia Fall Mini Yellow Aspen Wreath down to $10, now is a great time to grab one for less. The warm foliage adds an easy seasonal accent, while the smaller size makes it a breeze to find a spot around the house. Grab it at Target while the current 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.

Hang on there, Mary Poppins fans: The franchise shows no signs of stopping after news just broke that a TV show is coming.

Deadline reported on Friday, September 25 that the upcoming small-screen adaptation will be based on P. L. Travers’ original eight Mary Poppins books and open up the larger, stranger world she had created.

Many fans recall Disney’s 1964 live-action film when they hear the character’s name. In addition to Julie Andrews‘ iconic turn, the movie is rich will standout supporting turns. There’s Dick Van Dyke, of course, plus Glynis Johns as Winifred Banks — for which she ultimately received a coveted Laurel Award.

Years earlier, meanwhile, Johns received an Academy Award nomination for another supporting performance — this time for an Australia-set drama film released in 1960. The Sundowners holds a 77% average critics’ rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which offers the following synopsis:

“In the 1920s Australia, Paddy Carmody (Robert Mitchum) is a roaming Irish sheepherder who loves his nomadic lifestyle. His wife, Ida (Deborah Kerr), and young son, Sean (Michael Anderson Jr.), don’t share his wanderlust, and family tensions come to a head after Ida persuades Paddy to settle down with a steady job. Meanwhile, the family’s boarder (Peter Ustinov) has to contend with the rigors of outback life and the attentions of a hotel-keeper (Johns) looking to land a husband.”

Inducted as a Disney Legend in 1998, Johns made history when she received a degree to teach dance by age 10, according to The Walt Disney Company’s website. By age 13, the actress appeared in her first film, South Riding (1938). Her first adult role came in 49th Parallel (1941), which was actually released in the U.S. as The Invaders and also starred Laurence Olivier. By 19, she reportedly became the youngest actress to play the lead role in the staged production of Peter Pan.

Today’s NYT Connections Sports Edition puzzle covers everything from New York basketball players and things you see at a press conference to high-performing baseball players.

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

So, if you’re looking for some hints and answers for today’s Connections Sports Edition on Saturday, September 26, 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: Lights, camera, action!
• Green: High-performing baseball players.
• Blue: New York basketball team members’ secondary name.
• Purple: Athletes with a sense of humor.

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

• Yellow: SETTING FOR A NEWS CONFERENCE
• Green: WINNINGEST MLB PITCHERS, INFORMALLY
• Blue: NICKNAMES OF KNICKS, PAST AND PRESENT
• Purple: ATHLETES WHO HAVE HOSTED “SNL”

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 #733 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

• SETTING FOR A NEWS CONFERENCE: DAIS, LECTERN, PODIUM, STAGE
• WINNINGEST MLB PITCHERS, INFORMALLY: CHRISTY, CY, GROVER, WALTER
• NICKNAMES OF KNICKS, PAST AND PRESENT: CAPTAIN CLUTCH, KAT, MELO, OAK
• ATHLETES WHO HAVE HOSTED “SNL”: BARKLEY, KELCE, PHELPS, ROUSEY

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 Friday, September 25, 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.

Fall is here, which means it’s time to build a wardrobe of lightweight layers that can handle crisp mornings, breezy afternoons, and cooler evenings. If you’re looking for a top that’s comfortable enough for everyday wear but has a few stylish details to make an outfit feel more polished, Walmart has a budget-friendly find worth adding to your cart.

The Fantaslook Asymmetrical Hem Long-Sleeve Shirt is currently on sale for just $13, down from $26. It comes in eight gorgeous colors that are versatile enough to complement any wardrobe, including beige, black, blue, caramel, gray green, and more. 

Courtesy of Walmart

Made from a lightweight rib-knit material, the shirt has a soft feel against the skin with enough stretch to keep you comfortable throughout the day. The textured fabric offers a touch of warmth for those cooler fall days without feeling bulky, making it especially easy to wear on its own or layer beneath your favorite jackets and sweaters.

The shirt has a classic rounded neckline and a unique asymmetrical hem that makes it stand out. Decorative buttons along the side add another stylish touch, while the subtle, ribbed detailing give the fabric extra visual interest. These thoughtful details elevate the everyday long-sleeve top without making it feel overly dressy or formal.

Related: Walmart’s $24 Waffle-Knit Lounge Set Is Made for Chilly Nights, Lazy Mornings, and Fall Errands

The versatile design is easy to style for just about any fall plan. Pair it with your favorite jeans and sneakers for a casual weekend outfit, or dress it up with tailored pants and a blazer for the office. You can also layer it beneath a cardigan, leather jacket, or coat, or pair it with leggings and boots for a cozy travel outfit.

Multiple Walmart shoppers praised the long-sleeve shirt for its “extremely cute, very comfortable” design. One reviewer said it’s “so warm and comfortable to wear,” while another  praised the “beautiful cut and fit,” adding, “I loved this top so much, I ordered it in 4 different colors!”

• Uvn Short-Sleeve V-Neck Blouse, $12 (was $21) at Walmart
• Fantaslook 3/4-Sleeve with Buttons Top, $15 (was $23) at Walmart
• Rosvigor Women’s Top, $13 (was $22) at Walmart

With its soft, stretchy fabric, subtle striped texture, decorative buttons, and unique asymmetrical hem, this Fantaslook top puts a stylish spin on the classic long-sleeve shirt — and it’s versatile enough to wear throughout the fall season. Grab a couple of your favorite colors for under $15 before this limited-time deal ends at Walmart. 

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.

Solving today’s NYT Strands puzzle is easy if you just imagine the air at the beach or what a blustery day feels like.

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 #937 on Saturday, September 26.

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: Like a crisp fall day.

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

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

• ZE
• GU
• CU
• WH
• PU
• FL
• BR
• GE (SPANGRAM)

Today’s Spangram is mostly diagonal.

Today’s Spangram answer for today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram, and Answers for Saturday, September 26, 2026, is GENTLEWIND.

• ZEPHYR
• GUST
• CURRENT
• WHIFF
• PUFF
• FLURRY
• BREEZE
• SPANGRAM: GENTLEWIND

Related: Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Monday, September 21, 2026

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The change of season is a great excuse to treat yourself to some high-quality bedding. While comforters range from airy to heavy-duty, fall calls for something in that comfortable in-between range. If you’re looking for something that’s light enough not to weigh you down but cozy enough to warm you up, the Yikush Comforter Set may be exactly what you have in mind.

This striking three-piece set is an excellent deal at Amazon right now, reduced in the blue, purple, and yellow king sizes from $33 to only $26. That’s its lowest price in at least 90 days, making now an excellent time to give your bed a seasonal refresh. There are also twin, full, and queen sizes available at a similar low price point.

Courtesy of Amazon

The patchwork pattern brings together a medley of homey patterns, including gingham checks, sweet botanicals, and crisp stripes. It exudes cottagecore charm, with colors that are rich yet restrained enough not to overwhelm the room. Because the motifs are so classic, you can easily work the comforter into rooms with soft, romantic, ethereal, or nature-inspired aesthetics.

Each set includes a comforter and two matching pillow shams, making it easy to achieve a clean and coordinated look with minimal effort. The soft microfiber has a “cozy” and “fluffy” feel, according to a shopper, with an “absolutely beautiful” appearance that nicely complements shabby-chic bedrooms or any space that could benefit from a pastel infusion.

Related: Amazon’s $15 Sunflower Lamp Adds a ‘Ray of Sunshine’ to Any Table

While it’s great to use on its own on warmer evenings, it layers well over heavy blankets and provides just the right amount of heft to keep you toasty when the weather cools down. Maintaining it is a breeze, too — just toss it in the washing machine to keep it fresh. Because the stitches are reinforced, there’s no risk of bunching or losing its shape.

• Ivellow Vintage Floral Sheet Set, $29 (was $36) at Amazon
• Roumea Bed Pillow Set of 4, $46 (was $70) at Amazon
• Bedsure Checkered Fleece Blanket, $14 (was $30) at Amazon

Now that fall is officially here, it’s an optimal time to refresh your bedroom. At this low price, the Yikush Comforter Set will liven up the space while giving you a necessary layer of comfort. Grab it now in your preferred color while it’s on sale at Amazon!

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Today’s New York Times Connections puzzle answers encompass a range of topics, including things seen at a laundromat, objects that are unflinching, wood variations, and things that give you that “just brushed” feeling.

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 #1203 on Saturday, September 26, 2026.

The New York Times

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

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

1. Garlic’s worst nightmare.
2. Get the wrinkles out.
3. Fiona Goode’s worst nightmare.
4. Unbothered.

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. BREATH FRESHENERS: GUM, MINT, MOUTHWASH, SPRAY
2. THINGS DONE TO A DRESS SHIRT AT THE LAUNDRY: FOLD, PRESS, STARCH, WASH
3. FEATURES OF WOOD: BURL, GRAIN, KNOTS, RINGS
4. “COOL” THINGS, IN EXPRESSIONS: BEANS, CAT, CUCUMBER, CUSTOMER

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, Friday, September 25, 2026

Today’s NYT Wordle answer refers to a form of poetry that attempts to encapsulate grief.

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 #1925 ahead.

Let’s start with a few hints.

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There are two vowels and one sometimes vowel in today’s Wordle.

Today’s Wordle begins with a vowel.

There are double letters in today’s Wordle.

A hint for today’s Wordle: O Captain! My Captain!

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

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

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

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

The New York Times

Today’s Wordle answer on Saturday, September 26, 2026, is ELEGY.

-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)

Kathy Mattea’s 1988 country hit “Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses” was not simply a song about a truck driver heading home after years on the road. 

Its story was inspired by a real couple in the family of the song’s writers and the song later earned a place on Rolling Stone’s “The 200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time.”

The song, released by Mattea in 1988, tells the story of Charlie, a truck driver who is finishing his career after 30 years on the road. Instead of ending with another difficult trip or a tragic turn, Charlie is going home to his wife and preparing for a new life after retirement.

Rolling Stone placed “Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses” at No. 176 on its 2024 list of the 200 greatest country songs. It described the song as a story about Charlie, who is retiring from trucking and plans to trade his big rig for an RV so he and his wife can enjoy their time together.

NBC / Getty Images

The song also became one of Mattea’s four No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.

“Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses” was written by brothers Gene Nelson and Paul Nelson. According to Songfacts, the brothers based the song on their aunt and uncle, Hop and Louise Langley, whom they often visited in North Carolina.

Hop Langley was a trucker, while Louise looked forward to the day her husband could retire. The couple wanted to travel around the country in a Winnebago after his years of work on the road.

That real family story became the foundation for the song’s fictional characters.

In the song, Charlie is making his final run after three decades as a truck driver. He has received a gold watch from his former employer and is headed home. His plans for retirement include spending more time with his wife and traveling in an RV.

The dozen roses in the title are connected to that homecoming. Charlie is not simply returning after another long trip. He is coming home to begin a different part of his life with the woman he loves.

Truck-driving country songs had become popular in the 1960s and often focused on the open road, long hours, homesickness and the dangers faced by drivers. By the time Mattea released “Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses,” that style of country music had already faded from its peak.

The song took another route. Its focus was retirement, marriage and the hope of enjoying life after years of work.

Mattea released “Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses” as the second single from her 1987 album Untasted Honey. The song entered Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart on March 12, 1988.

It reached No. 1 on May 21, 1988, and stayed at the top for two weeks.

The hit became the second of Mattea’s four No. 1 songs on the Hot Country Songs chart. Her other No. 1 hits were “Goin’ Gone,” “Come From the Heart” and “Burnin’ Old Memories.”

Mattea’s recording helped turn the Nelson brothers’ family-inspired story into one of her most recognized songs.

Rolling Stone highlighted the song for its story of a working man reaching retirement and returning to his wife. The song has also remained notable among trucking songs. Songfacts describes it as one of the most popular trucking songs, while American Songwriter noted that its sentimental story helped it stand apart from older truck-driving country records.

In the 1988 film “Rain Man,” Dustin Hoffman’s character references “Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses” during a conversation with his brother, played by Tom Cruise.

More than three decades after its release, the song still carries the same simple story: a man finishes a lifetime of work, heads home and looks forward to spending the next chapter with his wife.

Related: 1973 Soft Rock Song, Recorded in London, Is Still a Beloved Hit 53 Years Later

Tuesday is the day all book lovers look forward to. It’s the day of new releases, whether you’re looking for a new romance, a dystopian story, or something that has you looking for clues. Sept. 29, 2026 is no different, with so many books that you’ll just want to know when you’ll be able to sleep!

Not sure where to start? Whatever genre you’re most interested in, we have seven books that you need to add to your TBR as we say goodbye to September and get ready for spooky season.

Can you believe that Shatter Me turns 15 this year? The dystopian series has captured hearts and minds, and it found a new audience during the pandemic thanks to BookTok. We recently spoke with Tahereh Mafi about the anniversary, as well as the release of the next story in the universe, Escape Me.

Escape Me is the third in the new volume, which picks up 10 years after the events of the Shatter Me story. James Anderson needs a new plan, as he continues to make real moves against the threats to their world. However, nobody is ready to take him seriously, so he needs to act without permission and hope for forgiveness.

For those ready for a YA contemporary romance to keep the fall vibes, Trust Fall by Lynn Painter is the story to start with. Julia is a small-town girl who is happy with her peaceful life. When her elderly neighbor passes away, she learns that he was a secret multi-millionaire, and he’s left his fortune to Julia and her family. Now she has the opportunity to attend an elite private school, but is that what she really wants?

Well, she doesn’t fit in, and she’s failing. To help with one problem, she gets a tutor who is sure to get her back on track, but this Damion has his own secret. He’s the nephew of the family member who left everything to Julia, and he wants revenge. As the two get to know each other more, they will need to navigate those feelings and initial intentions.

Historical fiction and mystery go together well, and when you think of this genre, you will likely think of Sherlock Holmes. The Vanished Sister by Sherry Thomas is the ninth story in a gender-swapped take on the story, following Charlotte Holmes three years after the decisive blow against Moriarty’s operations.

When Mrs. Watson gets an invitation from her long-estranged sister, Mrs. Carstairs, to attend a nearby house party while she and Charlotte are on the perfect summer holiday, things take a turn. Mrs. Carstairs disappears without a trace, and the body fished out of the Bristol Channel is not hers. So, what happened, and did Mrs. Watson have something to do with it?

It’s almost time to return to the world of Truly Devious with The Velvet Knife by Maureen Jackson. This is another YA contemporary piece of fiction, but it’s a mystery instead of romance. Stevie needs to get to the bottom of another mystery: what happened to her boyfriend. She’d much rather deal with a murder than relationship drama, and that’s exactly what she gets.

When a body turns up in the middle of the Manhattan apartment complex, Stevie realizes that her true skills will be tested. Stevie has to start questioning every single human connection, as it’s possible that people may be joining a cult. This is perfect for fans of A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder and One of Us Is Lying.

As it’s the end of September, you’re possibly looking for a horror to get into. The Unhaunting by Micaiah Johnson is just that. It’s the end of the Civil War, and a daughter of the Confederacy believes she’s built a house where nothing bad could happen. Oh, how life seems to have a strange way of proving everyone wrong.

It just takes 170 years for the bad to come out. When Shantell’s best friend, Avery, inherits the house, the two move in optimistically. Shantell is ready to move past the pain and loss in her life, but whether it’s cleaning up black mold or handling the evil spirits, Shantell finds that there’s an eeriness to the calm, and sometimes, you shouldn’t go digging into the past. It’s packed with creepy and unsettling vibes that may just disrupt your sleep for all the right reasons!

There’s another great historical fiction mystery to check out, and this one has nothing to do with Sherlock Holmes. Instead, it follows Coroner John Derrick, who is called to a rather confusing situation. The body of a naked man has been pulled out from under a waterwheel. Only, while it initially looks like an unfortunate accident, the particular missing body part suggests something else.

While the villagers turn away from the horror and don’t all make that much sense, 16-year-old Rebecca shares everything she can, but not out of the goodness of her heart. This is Elizabethan England, and servants are able to move around without being seen, which protects her own clandestine affairs, which she now needs to keep secret as the murder investigation takes place.

If you loved Pachinko, then you’ll want to check out Min Jin Lee’s next novel, American Hagwon. It’s one of the most anticipated books by Spotify’s team, and there are many great reasons for that. It’s a story of sweeping intimacy that forces a person to reckon with their own ambition.

The Koh family used to have a comfortable middle-class life. Then their lives were upended by betrayals and the 1997 Asian financial crisis. All they want is to find their footing, and it means leaving Seoul for Sydney and then Southern California. While this is fiction, there’s a heart to the story that focuses on the belief that education will allow the next generation to find success. Just how far will parents go to provide for their children?

If you loved the way that Yesteryear poked fun at the trad wife influencer boom, then you’ll want to check out Trad Wife by Sarah Langan. However, don’t expect the same story at all. This isn’t about a woman stuck in another time or losing her mind. There’s a much darker, more terrifying element to the tale that makes it perfect for horror season.

Jenny Kaplan is desperate to boost her career after online attacks led to her losing her job. When she gets the chance to interview Mia Wright, the social media queen of trad wife influence, she isn’t all that certain at first. But she takes the gig anyway, and as she sees that many of the videos are staged, she learns that there is something much more sinister happening at Black Swan Farm. Can she get out alive?

In 1976, Rainbow, the legendary British hard rock band, released the classic hit “Stargazer,” a nearly nine-minute track that remains one of the band’s most enduring songs.

Decades later, the band, formed by former Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, continues to resonate with generations of rock listeners.

In a curated list by Rolling Stone, titled 100 Greatest Heavy Metal Songs of All Time, Rainbow’s “Stargazer” ranked No. 14.

The publication highlighted the track as the band’s iconic vocalist Ronnie James Dio’s “finest vocal performance on record.”

Released as part of their second studio album, Rising, “Stargazer” was not issued as a commercial single. Instead, “Starstruck” was released as the album’s only single in 1976.

Instead, stations favored the shorter “Starstruck,” which was released as the primary single to promote the album.

Despite the song’s lack of commercial exposure, “Stargazer” was considered a landmark track on the album, with Rising securing the No. 48 spot on the Billboard 200.

Fin Costello/Redferns/Getty Images

However, before “Stargazer” cemented its status as one of the band’s timeless tracks, the song’s creation had an intriguing story of its own.

The sophomore album was recorded at Musicland Studios in Munich, a windowless basement located beneath a high-rise building in Munich, Germany.

Rainbow was joined by producer Martin Birch, who had previously worked with Blackmore’s former band, Deep Purple.

As for the songwriting process, Blackmore, the band’s founder and primary guitarist, wrote the song while playing the cello instead of the guitar.

“I wrote that on the cello,” Blackmore told Guitar World, via Rolling Stone. “I had given up on the guitar between ’75 and ’78. I completely lost interest. I was sick of hearing other guitar players, and I was tired of my tunes. What I really wanted to be was Jacqueline du Pré on cello, so I started playing cello.”

With Blackmore’s exotic-sounding guitar work, “Stargazer” pairs intricate guitar melodies with Ronnie James Dio’s dramatic and theatrical vocal delivery.

Initially, Blackmore wanted to add a touch of grandeur to the song with the help of the Munich Symphony Orchestra, led by conductor Rainer Pietsch.

However, although the orchestra was brought in and recorded, Blackmore thought its contribution was too much and would overpower the song.

“The orchestra was too flowery, and there was too much detracting from the simple melody,” the guitarist mentioned in an interview, as cited by Louder. “We kept taking out parts, and I felt sorry for Rainer because he was so proud of this grandiose piece he had written. We got down to the bare bones, and mixed in some Mellotron to even out the orchestra not sounding cohesive or in tune.”

Ultimately, “Stargazer” became a defining example of Rainbow’s ability to blend hard rock with grand, theatrical arrangements, transforming its cello-inspired beginnings into an ambitious recording that has endured for five decades.

Related: 1971 Song by Joni Mitchell, Covered By Over 200 Artists, Is Still a Powerful Hit 55 Years Later