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Hot Water Music is giving fans a few more chances to catch the band on the road this year.

The veteran punk rock outfit has announced six new North American headline dates that will take place during its upcoming run supporting the Menzingers. The newly added shows include stops in Albuquerque on Oct. 1, Sacramento on Oct. 7, Fargo on Oct. 15, Charlotte on Nov. 5, Grand Rapids on Nov. 12 and Erie on Nov. 18.

"Hot Water Music has announced new headline one-off dates, during their upcoming run supporting the Menzingers!" the band shared on Instagram. "Tickets on sale now. And up next: Europe! Which date will you be at?!"

The added concerts continue an especially active stretch for the Florida band, which has spent much of the past two years touring in support of its 2024 album Vows.

"I feel like we made an exciting record which is hard to do," bassist Jason Black told Big Takeover of Vows. "Once we got rolling on the tracking, it made me excited to listen to it and it still does. I’m kind of in a little bit of disbelief. It’s like, “Wow, this is really good. We did a really good record.” I feel comfortable saying that and I’m still excited when I put it on.

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Released through Equal Vision Records, the album marked the group's first full-length studio effort since 2022's Feel the Void and featured collaborations with several notable artists from across the punk and alternative rock worlds, including members of City and Color, Turnstile, Thrice, Calling Hours and The Interrupters.

"Everybody had some ideas, but what was cool about it to me is there was no set agenda or goal, we just hollered at a bunch of friends and some of them came back and were able to do it," vocalist Chuck Ragan told New Noise. "It just ended up being a really beautiful thing that were very, very honored and thankful to be a part of.

Formed in Gainesville, Florida, in 1994, Hot Water Music emerged as one of the defining bands of the melodic punk and post-hardcore scenes. Led by the distinctive dual vocals of Chuck Ragan and Chris Wollard, the group built a devoted following through acclaimed albums including Fuel for the Hate Game, No Division, Caution and The New What Next. Their blend of emotionally charged songwriting, gritty melodies and relentless touring helped influence countless punk bands that followed.

The band has continued finding new ways to celebrate its legacy while pushing forward creatively. In late 2024, Hot Water Music teamed with fellow post-hardcore pioneers Quicksand for a split EP that featured each band covering songs from the other's catalog, along with two previously unreleased tracks: Quicksand's "Supercollider" and Hot Water Music's "Undertow," the latter originating from the Brian McTernan-produced Vows recording sessions.

With a European run on deck, support dates alongside the Menzingers and six newly announced headline shows now on the calendar, Hot Water Music shows no signs of slowing down.

More than three decades after forming, the band continues to prove that its passionate live performances remain at the heart of its enduring appeal.

Related: '70s Rock Icon Announces New Album 59 Years After Beginning Career

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Summer is all about enjoying the outdoors, and there's nothing quite as special as sitting in the sun while watching local wildlife pay a visit to your home. If you're looking for an easy way to turn your deck, garden, or patio into an enchanting oasis, a cute bird bath is a great place to start. Walmart's bestselling Specstar Bird Bath adds so much vintage-style charm to any space, and it's now on sale for nearly 50% off. 

The stunning accent piece comes in four versatile colors that will complement any style of outdoor decor. You can shop it in blue, bronze, copper, and gray hues at just $31, down from $61, and in a green style at $38.

Specstar Bird Bath, From $31 (was $61) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Featuring a spacious 20-inch bowl with gently sloped edges, this antique-inspired bird bath offers a cozy place for feathered critters to perch, drink, and bathe. Constructed of high-quality plastic with a vintage-style bronze coating, it's weather-resistant and built for year-round outdoor use, standing up to rain, sun, and freezing temperatures without cracking, fading or rusting. 

Related: Walmart's $105 Patio Glider Bench Is 'Comfy,' 'Relaxing,' and Perfect for Summer Lounging

Featuring a 15-inch base, the bird bath comes with three ground stakes and a hollow support pole that you can fill with sand, gravel, or water for extra weight, ensuring stability even in windy conditions. The bowl has a 2.4-inch depth with grip holes on the rim for a secure fit, and it's easy to clean. Simply twist off the bowl for quick and effortless water changes. 

Shop More Deals

• Paddsun Bird Bath, $26 (was $36) at Walmart
• Samhe Metal Wild Bird Feeder, $15 (was $23) at Walmart
• Koralakiri Hummingbird Feeder, $11 (was $18) at Walmart

With its stunning look, durable build, and five classic colors to choose from, this vintage-style bird bath makes a cute and whimsical upgrade to any outdoor space for summer. Pick one up while it's still on sale for nearly 50% off at Walmart. 

You should solve today's NYT Connections puzzle in record time if you're good on the strings. 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 #1113 onSunday, June 28, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Sunday, June 28, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

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

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

Hints About Today's NYT Connections Categories on Sunday, June 28

1. The cream of the crop.
2. "On your marks! Get set! ..."
3. Plays with strings.
4. Like charcuterie or cheese.

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 Sunday, June 28:

1. HIGH-QUALITY: CHOICE, FINE, PRIME, SELECT
2. SIGNALS TO COMMENCE: BEGIN, GO, NOW, START
3. ACCESSORIES FOR A GUITARIST: CAPO, PICK, SLIDE, STRAP
4. THEY HAVE BOARDS: CHESS, CORPORATION, DARTS, SURFER

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: The Genius Way to Make Strawberry Shortcake 10x Better, According to an Award-Winning Chef

Today's NYT Wordle answer might make you want to listen to Doug E. Fresh. 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. And, of course, I can’t forget about Wordle, too! If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1835 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

There are three vowels in today's five-letter word.

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

Today's Wordle begins with a vowel.

Are there any double letters?

There are double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle

A hint for today's Wordle is: Mic check, one two, one two.

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 #1835 on Sunday, June 28, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Sunday, June 28, 2026, is EMCEE.

-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)

More than three decades after Nicole Brown Simpson's death, an unexpected discovery is bringing part of her story back into the spotlight.

Businessman Joseph Perrulli, who says he dated Simpson in the early 1990s, has released a new memoir centered around a briefcase he believed was lost for years. The book, The Lost Briefcase, draws from personal items he says he unexpectedly rediscovered decades after their relationship ended.

According to Perrulli, the briefcase contained a collection of deeply personal memories, including a journal, keepsakes from Simpson and a photo collage she had created featuring the two of them together.

The discovery prompted him to revisit a chapter of his life that began in 1989, when he first met Simpson.

While Simpson is often remembered through the lens of one of the most publicized criminal cases in American history, Perrulli's book focuses on a different side of her life that was largely private.

The memoir traces their friendship and eventual romance, documenting moments that occurred away from public attention. Among the memories Perrulli revisits is what he describes as the last time he saw Simpson alive: a Christmas gathering hosted by Kris and Bruce Jenner in 1993.

That holiday season would ultimately become the final Christmas of Simpson's life.

Rather than revisiting the events that later dominated headlines, Perrulli's account centers on personal memories, photographs and everyday experiences he says have remained with him for decades.

The release arrives 32 years after Simpson's funeral and offers a perspective rarely discussed publicly: how she was remembered by someone who knew her during a period when she was trying to build a life beyond the public scrutiny surrounding her marriage and divorce.

Today, Perrulli is best known as the inventor of Govino's shatterproof wine glasses. But with The Lost Briefcase, he's stepping into a very different role, sharing a collection of memories that, until recently, had been sitting unnoticed inside a forgotten briefcase.

Related: Yungblud Cancels Festival Performance After Tonsillitis Flare-Up

On June 28, 1966, country music was quietly changed in a Hollywood recording studio.

That day, Merle Haggard entered the famed Capitol Recording Studio in Los Angeles to cut what would become one of his defining early tracks, "The Bottle Let Me Down."

At the time, Haggard was still climbing from regional success into national recognition, but he was already carving out a distinctive voice: raw, unsentimental, and rooted in the realities of working-class life in postwar America.

"The Bottle Let Me Down" captured that ethos in under three minutes.

The song tells the story of a man trying to drown heartbreak in alcohol, only to discover that even the bottle can’t do the job anymore. It’s classic honky-tonk subject matter, but Haggard’s delivery and the tight, economical studio arrangement, gave it a sharper emotional edge than much of what was on country radio at the time.

The Capitol studio setting also mattered.

In the mid-1960s, Capitol’s Hollywood facility was one of the most important recording hubs in the country, home to everything from pop orchestras to emerging country crossover acts. For Haggard, it placed him squarely inside the professional machinery of Nashville-adjacent country production, even as his music often pushed against its polish.

Released as a single in August 1966, "The Bottle Let Me Down" quickly gained traction. It peaked at No. 3 on the US Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, marking another major step in Haggard’s rapid ascent.

More importantly, it helped define the tone of what would become known as the Bakersfield sound, a leaner, more electric, more emotionally direct alternative to the lush Nashville style dominating country music at the time.

Related: 69 Years Ago, Patsy Cline Performed the Song That Made Her a Star

Movie Night is BACK! Love Island Season 8 has confirmed the highly anticipated event will make its triumphant return to the Peacock series this summer and is inviting fans to join in and help select the clips to be shown.

“We have heard the people,” said Aftersun host Tefi Pessoa. “Movie night is so delicious and delectable, and back by popular demand.”

Aftersun co-host Ciara Miller then explains that they have heard the cries and that fans want to be involved “so bad,” so now they get a chance. “So this is what is going to happen: You’re going to go to @LoveislandUSA on Instagram, and you are going to comment and tell us which clips need to be included for Movie Night.”

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The Love Island USA Aftersun host explained that they want to know which exciting moments need to be added and shared, and that fans have 24 hours to let them know.

Since the season started, fans have clamored for “movie night” to make its return. Movie night is an event that happens during the season, typically post-Casa Amor, in which the Islanders get to see what their partners may or may not have been open and honest about throughout the season.

Related: Love Island USA Season 8 Cast Zodiac Signs: Every Islander’s Star Sign Revealed

Love Island USA Season 7 did not have Movie Night, which led some fans to speculate that the twist had been removed from the franchise, but as confirmed by AfterSun, the twist has returned once again, and for the first time, it will be heavily influenced by what clips the fans want to see to ensure the Islanders get to see.

Releated: ‘Love Island USA’: Carl Defends Trinity After Recoupling Argument With Tierra

Love Island USASeason 8 airs daily on Peacock, with new episodes every day except Wednesday.

Over 40 years after they were first founded, the legendary heavy metal band Metallica just reached another unexpected milestone while performing in Scotland on June 25. The group took over the stage at the huge Barclays Hampden Park in Glasgow for a concert, with legions of fans piling in to watch Metallica perform.

While the fact that the longtime heavy metal band is still performing might be an accomplishment in itself for some fans of the group, Metallica also made history with this concert. The band officially broke the record for attendance numbers at the venue, with over 58,000 fans there that night, as reported by Music-News.com.

Metallica might already have plenty of major achievements from their years of making music, but now they can add hosting the largest concert ever at the Glasgow venue to the list.

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This isn't the first time this year that Metallica has broken a record of this kind. At the start of June, at another stop in the European leg of their ongoing tour in Berlin, Germany, the metal band set a new record for attendees at the Olympiastadion arena. The band brought in over 94,000 concertgoers, beating the previous record holders, U2.

The members of Metallica — James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, and Robert Trujillo — are enjoying their ongoing M72 World Tour. The tour began in April 2023, and it will end with a final show on July 5 in London, England. Throughout the years of touring, Metallica has traveled all over the world, with over 90 shows and counting.

Related: ’80s Heavy Metal Band Announces First Regional Tour in Seven Years

After the band finishes up in July, they will take a break before moving into the Sphere in Las Vegas, Nev., for a highly anticipated residency. The show, called Life Burns Faster, will have 24 dates. The first performance is set for Oct. 1, 2026, while it's expected to wrap up with a final show on March 13, 2027.

Both the M72 World Tour and the upcoming residency follow the band's "No Repeat Weekend" format, with Metallica playing two shows in one week or weekend with completely different sets.

Related: ’80s Rock Band Reunites After 40 Years for First Tour Since Breakup

As Mel Brooks prepares to celebrate his 100th birthday on Sunday, June 28, one of his most beloved films has received a remarkable new honor from one of the country's most respected film organizations.

The American Film Institute announced Friday that it has elevated Blazing Saddles to the No. 1 spot on its iconic AFI's 100 Years…100 Laughs list, officially naming the 1974 comedy the funniest American film of all time. The move comes as a special honorary reorganization of the Institute's landmark ranking, advancing the film from its longtime position at No. 6.

The decision replaces Billy Wilder'sSome Like It Hot, which had occupied the top spot since AFI first unveiled the list in 2000. AFI President and CEO Bob Gazzale acknowledged Brooks' longtime claim that Blazing Saddles was the funnier movie.

"He's right!" Gazzale said in a statement. "We're happy to right this wrong as Mel celebrates his centennial. It's good to be the king, and may he live to be a 2,000 year old man."

A Second Major Honor for 'Blazing Saddles'

AFI's announcement follows another significant recognition for Blazing Saddles. Earlier this week, Consequence ranked the film as Mel Brooks' greatest movie, placing it ahead of classics including Young Frankenstein, The Producers and Spaceballs.

The publication called the Western parody Brooks' greatest achievement, praising both its rapid-fire jokes and its enduring social satire. Released in 1974, Blazing Saddles was directed, co-written and produced by Brooks, who also appeared in the film. The satirical Western starred Cleavon Little, Gene Wilder, Madeline Kahn, Slim Pickens and Harvey Korman, earning three Academy Award nominations while becoming one of the most influential comedies ever made.

Little starred as Bart, a Black railroad worker who unexpectedly becomes sheriff of an all-white frontier town. Co-written in part by Richard Pryor, the film used absurd comedy to tackle racism, prejudice, and the conventions of classic Hollywood Westerns.

Consequence argued that the movie's ambition remains remarkable more than 50 years after its release, noting that Brooks managed to parody an entire genre while also delivering pointed commentary about American culture. The publication ultimately concluded that the film's combination of satire, memorable performances, and relentless humor helped secure its place at the top of Brooks' filmography.

Together, the two honors underscore the enduring legacy of a comedy that has remained one of Brooks' defining achievements more than 50 years after its release.

The new AFI ranking also highlights Brooks' remarkable place in film history. He is the only filmmaker with three movies in the organization's Top 15 comedy rankings, with Blazing Saddles now at No. 1, The Producers at No. 11 and Young Frankenstein at No. 13.

The AFI recognition comes just days after Brooks announced he was donating his career archives to the National Comedy Center, where the collection will eventually become part of the museum's permanent exhibits.

Over a career spanning more than seven decades, Brooks has earned the rare EGOT distinction, winning Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony awards, in addition to receiving the AFI Life Achievement Award, Kennedy Center Honors and an Academy Honorary Award.

Related: 1975 Classic Ranked Among the Greatest Films Ever Made Just Inspired an Unusual New Project

Cult of Luna, the Swedish post-metal band, revealed exciting news to fans.

The six-piece band, composed of Johannes Persson on vocals and guitar, Magnus Lindberg on percussion, Andreas Johansson on bass, Thomas Hedlund on drums, Kristian Karlsson on keyboards and Fredrik Kihlberg on guitar and vocals, announced the release of a new studio album.

Their 10th studio album, In The Shadow Of Your Shadow, will be available on Nov. 6 via RED CRK, with pre-orders now available.

In an Instagram post, the band mentioned special guests and creative collaborators who contributed to the album.

“This record features guest appearances from GOJIRA's Joe Duplantier and David Eugene Edwards. Artwork by Erik Olofsson. Co-produced with Daniel Berglund. Mixed by Magnus Lindberg. Mastered by Ted Jensen,” the caption reads.

Guitarist and singer Johannes Persson of Cult Of Luna performs on stage on October 08, 2022 in Madrid, Spain.

Aldara Zarraoa/Redferns

Moreover, Cult of Luna unveiled the nine-song tracklist for their upcoming album.

The tracklist includes, "In the Shadow of Your Shadow," "Sadness Will Reign (feat. Joe Duplantier)," "Landby," "Breach," "The Rift," "A Way Back," "One More Day (feat. David Eugene Edwards)," "From Grey to Black" and "Burial."

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Prior to the album launch, Cult of Luna released the first single and title track on June 11.

The frontman and guitarist revealed the inspiration and journey behind the song.

"’In The Shadow Of Your Shadow’ is written through the eyes of the traitor within. A battle once fought and believed to be won," Persson said, as cited by Kerrang. "A conviction that this venomous part of yourself had been buried so deep it could never return. But it was always there, hidden in the cracks of the persona. Silent. Patient. Waiting for the right moment to emerge once again."

The upcoming record will also mark their first album in four years, following the release of their ninth studio album, The Long Road North, in 2022.

Formed in 1998, Cult of Luna is widely regarded as one of the defining bands of the post-metal genre, helping shape its atmospheric sound.

Over the past two decades, the band has released a number of notable tracks, including their signature song, Leave Me Here, released in 2004.

In addition, A Greater Call featuring Julie Christmas and Vicarious Redemption are widely regarded among the band's greatest songs to date.

Related: '80s Rock Band, Disbanded After Two Years, Ranked Among the 'Best Supergroups' of All Time

Some songs become so closely tied to a season that it's impossible to imagine one without the other.

That has certainly been the case for Mungo Jerry's "In the Summertime." Released in 1970, the carefree rock hit became an international sensation, reaching No. 1 in more than a dozen countries and turning the British group into one of the biggest breakout acts of the decade. More than 50 years later, it remains one of the defining songs of summer.

The song's success came almost instantly.

Written by frontman Ray Dorset, "In the Summertime" was reportedly composed in just a matter of minutes. Built around a skiffle-inspired rhythm, playful lyrics and its instantly recognizable jug accompaniment, the song stood apart from the heavier rock music dominating the era, offering listeners a lighthearted celebration of warm weather, freedom and youthful adventure.

Its infectious sound resonated around the world.

"In the Summertime" became Mungo Jerry's biggest hit by a wide margin, spending seven weeks at No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart while also topping charts across Europe, Australia and Canada. It reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States, making the band an international success almost overnight.

"I never intended to become a full-time songwriter or musician," said Dorset in an interview with Classic Bands. "Everything I did was for the groove or for the vibe or for the fun. I was actually working in a research laboratory at the time, Timex Corp. Music was a hobby. So, everything changed. I gave up my day job. I was out all over the place, every two or three days on an airplane to some other destination."

Although Mungo Jerry continued recording and touring for decades, "In the Summertime" remained the song most closely associated with the group. Its singalong chorus and feel-good energy helped it become a perennial favorite on oldies and classic hits radio, while appearances in films, television shows and commercials introduced it to successive generations of listeners.

The song's popularity has endured because it captures a universal feeling. Long before the phrase "song of the summer" became part of pop culture, "In the Summertime" embodied everything listeners wanted from a warm-weather anthem: simple melodies, carefree optimism and an irresistible sense of fun.

"When I look back at performance clips of the single, I see I've got this big grin and I'm wearing clothes that make no sense at all, with these massive sideburns, while the other guys in the band have a proper hippy look," Dorset told The Guardian. "I think I was trying to align everything to nature and spontaneity. It’s always been about the groove and the vibe for me, not technical mastery or seeing how many notes you can play, which leaves me cold."

More than five decades after its release, "In the Summertime" continues to soundtrack vacations, road trips, backyard barbecues and sunny afternoons around the world. What began as Mungo Jerry's breakthrough hit has become one of rock's most beloved seasonal classics, proving that the best summer songs never really go out of style.

Related: 1976 Rock Classic, Once Spent 27 Weeks Charting, Became a Soft Rock Anthem

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If you’re working with limited space or like to host overnight guests, a sofa bed can be a game changer. Instead of dedicating an entire room to a bed that’s rarely used, you can have a functional seating area by day and a sleeping setup by night. It’s a smart solution for apartments, small homes, or anyone who wants to make the most of their space.

There are plenty of modern options that are both comfortable and stylish without costing a fortune. One standout pick is the Amada Homefurnishing 66-Inch Corduroy Sofa Bed. It’s currently on sale for 44% off at Target, bringing the price down from $320 to just $180. 

Amada Homefurnishing 66-Inch Corduroy Sofa Bed, $180 (was $320) at Target

Courtesy of Target

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In terms of size, it’s designed to be practical without feeling bulky. It supports up to 500 pounds, making it sturdy enough for daily use. When set up as a sofa, it measures 66.1 inches long, 30.7 inches tall, and 20.8 inches wide. When fully extended into a bed, it expands to 66.1 inches long, 18.9 inches tall, and 39.4 inches wide, giving guests a comfortable place to sleep.

Setup is simple and straightforward, which is always a plus with larger furniture pieces. The sofa comes with clear instructions and all the necessary tools, allowing you to assemble it in about 30 minutes. The cushions arrive vacuum-packed and regain their full shape within 72 hours. One shopper highlighted the “easy assembly, fast shipping, and smooth adjustable backrest and armrest,” adding, “Overall I really love it!”

Comfort is a big part of what makes this sofa bed stand out. It features soft elastic memory foam combined with high-resilience sponge for balanced support. The corduroy fabric adds a cozy texture while also being durable enough for everyday use. It feels soft to the touch and holds up well against regular wear, making it a reliable choice for both sitting and sleeping.

Related: Target’s ‘Soft’ $473 Modular Sectional Sofa Is 'Pet-Friendly' and 'Perfect for a Family'

The adjustable design makes it even more versatile. The armrests are adjustable to five different positions, so you can customize them for extra support while sitting or lounging. The backrest has three positions: 105 degrees for upright seating, 160 degrees for relaxed lounging, and a full 180 degrees flat position for sleeping. This flexibility makes it easy to switch between uses throughout the day.

It’s especially well suited for smaller spaces where every piece of furniture needs to work harder. Whether you place it in a living room, home office, or studio apartment, it fits in without overwhelming the room. It’s also a great alternative to air mattresses when guests stay over, offering a more stable and comfortable experience.

The construction adds to its long-term value. A solid wood frame and reinforced support legs provide stability you can rely on. Combined with the durable upholstery and supportive cushioning, it’s built to handle regular use without losing its shape or comfort over time.

If you’re looking for a practical upgrade that doesn’t sacrifice style, the Amada Homefurnishing 66-Inch Corduroy Sofa Bed checks all the boxes. It’s comfortable, easy to use, and thoughtfully designed for everyday living. With the current 44% discount, you can save nearly $150, making now a great time to bring home a piece that truly pulls double duty.

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Love Island USA's Aftersun on June 27 was a debrief after the tense recoupling after Casa Amor. The people who weren't taken to the villa spoke amongst themselves about the tense ceremony.

Some thought Trinity Tatum went too far by asking KC Chandler a question, then arguing with Tierra Davis. But Carl Lee Schmidtdefended her and Aniya Harvey's decision.

Spoiler alert for Love Island USA Season 8 Episode 22!

Carl Defends Trinity and Says Aniya Is Special on 'Love Island USA' Aftersun Aniya Harvey on 'Love Island USA'

Ben Symons/Peacock

Corey Sawyer Jr., Ronnie Gunter, Chay Nehra, and Carl left the villa after the ceremony and spoke in a room, and it was filmed. "Where do we want to start? The fight?" Ronnie asked the others.

"Which one, though?" Chay asked, and they laughed again. Corey said Tierra Davis was "intense." Ronnie laughed at her calling Trinity "a little girl."

Chay was critical of Trinity's part in the argument. "Trinity just--she kind of came out crazy," he said. "Like, first of all, you don't know this girl."

Carl had a different perspective. "Yeah, I feel like Trinity was just standing up for her friends, you know?" he said. "And I don't put that on her. Like, it was all to KC." The fitness instructor thinks the problem was how KC brought Tierra back.

All of the dumped men said they saw Aniya's face drop when she saw the new pairing. "That was hard to see because I know how special Aniya is, and she's the one I always had my eye on," Carl said.

Related: Who Is ‘Love Island USA’s Tierra ‘Titi’ Davis?

What happened between Trinity and Tierra on 'Love Island USA'? Tierra Davis and Kuman Dameon “KC” Chandler

Ben Symons/Peacock

Episode 21 showed the two villas merging. The women in the villa were almost certain that KC would bring a woman back from Casa Amor. Aniya spent time with Carl, but chose to recouple with KC, knowing the risk.

"My head is spinning if you want me to be honest," Aniya said at the ceremony. "I feel as even though Carl is so perfect, but I feel like, the whole time, I was thinking about KC."

KC walked in with Tierra and was unapologetic about his choice. He said he made it for himself and not Aniya, which angered the women from the villa.

"I have a question, I remember you mentioned something to Bryce [Dettlof] about me, and him were the favorite couple compared to everybody else, yet you switched up the moment that you could get anybody," Trinity asked KC. "So why did you make that comment if you switched up that fast?"

Tierra jumped in to defend him. "At the end of the day, he's here for him," she told Trinity. Trinity reminded the Casa Amor bombshell that she asked KC the question, but she didn't back down. She later called Trinity "a little girl."

Fans voted for Cory, Ronnie, Chay, or Carl to return to the villa. Carl is a likely candidate to go back because of his connection with Aniya. The results will be revealed on Sunday, June 28's episode.

Related: ‘Love Island USA’: Gabriel Reveals if He’ll Date Beatriz Outside the Villa

James Van Der Beek's widow is continuing to connect with fans months after tragedy struck her family of eight.

The Dawson's Creek alum died in February at age 48 after battling cancer, but his legacy lives on as Kimberly Van Der Beek, 44, shares more photos from years past to social media.

"Baby, love does not die. Death does not part," raeds the caption of her Instagram post on Friday, June 26.

Check out the carousel of sweet photos of the couple, including ones of James embracing her that will certainly touch fans' hearts in a bittersweet way.

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Fans have since flooded the post's comments section with love and support for the Van Der Beek family. "So much love to you and your kiddos, and to James - he made the world a better place ❤️," wrote one Instagram user, while another person commented, "Beautiful post ❤️ I’m glad you have your 6 children that is a symbol of your love and James will live on forever in them ❤️."

Earlier this week, Kimberly her late husband on the first Father’s Day since his death.

“Missing you so much and thinking of how magnificent you were in every single way today,” Kimberly, 44, wrote via Instagram on June 21, alongside a carousel of photos of James with their six children. “And somehow, from the other side? You continue to parent. You’re a marvel.”

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The Varsity Blues actor died on Feb. 11, 2026 after battling stage 3 colorectal cancer since 2023.

“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning,” Kimberly wrote on Instagram at the time. “He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”

To solve today's NYT Mini Crossword puzzle, you'll need to be zen. Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can't forget about the NYT's The Mini Crossword, too!

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

So, if you're working on today's Mini Crossword on Sunday, June 28, 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!

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Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Sunday, June 28, 2026

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

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: Sound of relaxation — HINT: Ends with the letter "P"

4 Across: Summer vacation destination —HINT: Starts with the letter "E"

7 Across: "In some bad news ..." — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"

8 Across: Extend, as a contract — HINT: Ends with the letter "A"

9 Across: Flying squirrel's landing point — HINT: Starts with the letter "H"

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

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Muscles exercised by crunches — HINT: Ends with the letter "P"

2 Down: What the Tin Man wants from the Wizard of Oz — HINT: Starts with the letter "I"

3 Down: Bill of HBO's "Barry" — HINT: Starts with the letter "Y"

5 Down: You're reading one — HINT: Ends with the letter "A"

6 Down: Super-excited, in slang — HINT: Starts with the letter "O"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Sunday, June 28, 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: Sound of relaxation — AHH

4 Across: Summer vacation destination —BEACH

7 Across: "In some bad news ..." — SADLY

8 Across: Extend, as a contract — REUP

9 Across: Flying squirrel's landing point — TREE

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Muscles exercised by crunches — ABS

2 Down: What the Tin Man wants from the Wizard of Oz — HEART

3 Down: Bill of HBO's "Barry" — HADER

5 Down: You're reading one — CLUE

6 Down: Super-excited, in slang — HYPE

Related: The Genius Way to Make Strawberry Shortcake 10x Better, According to an Award-Winning Chef

Who didn't watch a soap opera or two growing up (or even now)? They're fun to watch, something you can really sink your teeth into as you follow the trials and tribulations of a group of characters as they deal with daily life and some, let's be honest, out of this world situations. From Dr. Marlena Evans demonic possession on Days of Our Lives to General Hospital's James Bond-esque story line featuring a villain with an ice age weather machine, the crazier the story, the more we love to watch. Then there was Dark Shadows, possibly the daddy of the outrageous plot lines. The gothic soap opera series aired from 1966 to 1971 and featured a supernatural theme in its universe and its main character, Barnabas Collins, became a cult favorite.

The series saw several reboots in television, film, and even books over the years, and it is about to return again. Warner Bros. animation announced a new reboot of the series, Dark Shadows, is currently in development. This is the first time the series will be animated form.

Let's take a look at the new series. Here's everything we know about Dark Shadows.

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What is Dark Shadows?

Created by Dan Curtis, Dark Shadows was a soap opera that originally aired on ABC in 1966 for a total of 1,225 episodes before the show ended in 1971. The series celebrates its 60th anniversary this summer.

It was an American Gothic style series that followed the lives of the Collins family in Collinsport, Maine where many supernatural events would occur During its run, the character of Barnabas Collins, a 175 year-old vampire would be the breakout star of the show.

Barnabas would become the archetype for future vampires in entertainment - a vampire with a conscience. From Louis de Pointe du Lac in Anne Rice's The Vampire Chronicles to Angel in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and the Cullen Family in the Twilight series of books and movies, fans can thank Barnabas Collins for their modern day vampires.

Is this Dark Shadows reboot live or animated?

This Dark Shadows series will be animated and geared toward an adult audience.

Related: Disney Drops New Teaser and Premiere Date for ‘Descendants: Wicked Wonderland’

Were there other Dark Shadows reboots?

Yes, there were several television reboots and films, as well as books, but most notably a 2012 film starring Johnny Depp and directed by Tim Burton.

Related: Netflix’s Live-Action ‘Scooby-Doo’ Series Just Revealed It’s Scooby

Who will be the showrunner on the new Dark Shadows series?

Lisa Holdsworth will serve as the executive prodcer and showrunner for the new reboot of Dark Shadows. Holdsworth is a writer and producer. Her writing credits include Call the Midwife, Midsomer Murders, and A Discovery of Witches.

Cathy Curtis, Tracy Curtis, Eric Homan, Kevin Kolde, Fred Seibert will also serve as executive producers on the series. These producers have worked on series such as SpongeBob SquarePants, Fairly OddParents. Adventure Time, and Castlevania.

When will the new Dark Shadows series premiere?

Warner Bros. Animation has not announced a premiere date. Since this series is animated, it won't likely premiere until 2027 at the earliest, but check back here, as we will update the post as we find out more.

Where can I watch the new Dark Shadows series?

Warner Bros. Animation has yet to announce a home for the new Dark Shadows reboot series. Check back here for updates.

Next, Jeff Probst Announces ‘Survivor’ Is Becoming an Animated Movie — With Animals as Players

Few songs capture the spirit of the open road quite like "Roadhouse Blues."

When the Doors released the track in 1970 on Morrison Hotel, the swaggering blues rocker immediately stood apart with its driving rhythm, infectious groove and unforgettable opening line: "Keep your eyes on the road, your hands upon the wheel." More than five decades later, it remains one of the band's defining recordings and one of rock's ultimate road trip songs.

The song marked a return to the band's blues roots.

Written primarily by Jim Morrison, "Roadhouse Blues" found the Doors embracing a stripped-down, barroom sound after the experimental direction of The Soft Parade. Featuring a memorable harmonica performance by Morrison and a guest appearance from blues legend John Sebastian, the recording showcased the group's love of American blues while delivering one of its hardest-rocking performances.

"We were sitting there drinking and Jim comes in and he flops down," Alice Cooper, who was a friend of the band, told Planet Rock. "I said that I had got up this morning and got myself a beer and while we're talking he just writes that down. So they go in and they're doing the song and the next thing I hear is 'Woke up this morning and I got myself a beer' and I went 'I just said that a second ago!' He was very spontaneous in the way things were written."

Although it wasn't among the band's biggest chart hits, "Roadhouse Blues" quickly became a cornerstone of the Doors’ live shows and one of the songs most closely associated with Morrison's stage persona. Its raw energy and singalong chorus helped cement its place as a classic rock staple, while its highway imagery and driving bassline made it a natural soundtrack for generations of road travelers.

"Lonnie Mac was the only bass player on ['Roadhouse'], guitarist Robby Krieger told Kyle Meredith in a 2024 interview. "It was just amazing to have Lonnie play bass because he'd never played bass before, believe it or not. He was a guitar player, he was a famous guitar player."

Mac had been hired as a handyman around the recording studio after quitting the industry himself, but on the day "Roadhouse Blues" was recorded, the Doors' bassist never showed up. So, Mac stepped in.

"He said, 'Well I'll try, I've never played bass before,'" recalled Krieger. "And he played the most amazing bass part. [...] When goes into that chorus, it hits like a freight train."

And then, nearly four decades later, the song found a new audience.

In 2009, Texas trio Los Lonely Boys recorded a spirited cover of "Roadhouse Blues" for Covered, A Revolution in Sound, a tribute album celebrating the Doors. Rather than simply recreating the original, the Grammy-winning band infused the song with its signature blend of Texas blues, rock and Latin influences, paying tribute to the classic while giving it a fresh musical identity.

The reinterpretation demonstrated the remarkable staying power of the Doors' songwriting. By preserving the song's unmistakable groove while adding its own style, Los Lonely Boys introduced "Roadhouse Blues" to younger listeners and reaffirmed why it has remained a favorite among musicians for decades.

More than 50 years after its release, "Roadhouse Blues" continues to embody the freedom and adventure of life on the highway. Reimagined by countless artists, including Los Lonely Boys nearly 40 years later, the Doors' blues-rock classic remains one of the most enduring road trip anthems ever recorded.

Related: 1976 Rock Classic, Once Spent 27 Weeks Charting, Became a Soft Rock Anthem

Madonna teased her upcoming album, Confessions II, during a recent appearance on The Graham Norton Show. 

The record includes a duet with her daughter Lourdes "Lola" Leon as well as a song that mourns her late brother, who died in 2024. 

The queen of pop is ready for people to hear the album, "because it's a whole story... I can't just make dance music about nothing.”  

This will be the first time Madonna and her eldest daughter participated in a duet. 

"She approached me," Madonna said about the song. "She's been very reticent to work with me. She doesn't want to be perceived as my daughter taking advantage of her privilege."

The 29-year-old has worked mostly independently as a model and performer. She made her New York Fashion Week debut for Gypsy Sport in 2018 and released her first single, "Lock&Key," in 2022.

"She's been very stand-offish, working at her own pace, and I respect that deeply,” Madonna shared. "But then one day she came to me and she said, 'You know what? I'm holding on to something and maybe it's a kind of... I don't want to say anger... maybe resentment?”  

Lola is the daughter of The “Material Girl” singer and former celebrity personal trainer CarlosLeon. She is the former couple's only child together. 

"Because at the end of the day she didn't ask for this [life]. She had been through her adolescence struggling with those feelings for a long time,” Madonna explained. “Then she came to me and she said, 'Let's write a song together, I think it'll be a very healing experience.'"

The 67-year-old also opened up about her relationship with her brother, ChristopherCiccone, who died of cancer in 2024. 

She wrote the song “Fragile” after he called her in the studio. 

"He was in a lot of pain, on the phone, and he was not in a good place," Madonna said. "I knew it was close to the end. And then I went upstairs and wrote a song." 

Working on the track was “cathartic” for her. 

"To let go of somebody you love, the best way to do it is to write about it. It's like an exorcism," she said.

Confessions II will be Madonna's 15th studio album. It is set to be released on July 3. 

Actress and comedian Ego Nwodim is sharing some insight into her most viral moment during her seven years on Saturday Night Live.

During an appearance on the June 25 episode of Watch What Happens Livewith Andy Cohen, Nwodim mentioned a Weekend Update moment, where her character, comedian Miss Eggy, unintentionally had the audience say a swear word during the show's 50th season. Nwodim clarified that the moment was completely unscripted and caused her to have to do some improvisation.

"When the audience cussed, we did not expect that. People have asked like, 'Did you think they were going to say that?' And it's like, 'No, that never occurred to us.' And at any point it did occur to us. Our standards and practices department would have been like, 'You can't do it,'" explained Nwodim during the June 2026 interview. "So, I was genuinely taken aback, but I was very much in character, and getting to improvise in character was such a joy. So, that was all improvised."

Ego Nwodim Shared Why She Decided to Leave 'Saturday Night Live'

Nwodim confirmed her SNL exit in September 2025. While speaking to Slate in November 2025, Nwodim explained her reasoning behind exiting the series. She said she felt that "it was probably time" to leave SNL.

"I think there's an art to knowing when to leave a party. I really, really, really believe that," said Nwodim.

In addition, she said she felt it was logical to bow out of another SNL season to work on other projects to benefit her career.

"I'm a little mathematical about things, so there was some math that was part of my decision, and I'm like, 'I've done so much on this show, and there's so much more that I'd like to do, beyond the show.' And I think I needed to create the space for those opportunities," said Nwodim during the Slate interview.

Olivia Rodrigo's latest era isn't just inspiring playlists, it's influencing closets and makeup bags, too.

Fresh off the release of her newest album and with a 2026 world tour on the horizon, the Grammy winner has become one of fashion's most closely watched young stars. Her recent run of vintage-inspired baby doll dresses, chunky boots, softly smudged eyeliner and subtle nods to '90s grunge has sparked countless recreations online, proving that her influence now extends well beyond music.

Now, she's giving fans a glimpse at the beauty routine behind the look.

As part of a new campaign with Lancôme, Rodrigo revealed the three products she reaches for most during the summer, saying they've become staples in her everyday routine.

"I gotta admit, it felt so cool to shoot this in LA," Rodrigo said of her latest collaboration with the brand. "It perfectly captured that carefree, sun-drenched summer feeling we get to enjoy here all year long. My favorite product from the shoot was definitely Lip Idôle CuddleBlur. It creates this perfect, soft-focus matte look that stays comfortable even in the heat—it’s the ultimate summer essential."

Rodrigo's picks beyond the new Lip Idôle CuddleBlur include Juicy Tubes Cheeks Blush Tint & Highlighter and Skin Idôle Makeup Magnet Setting Mist, three products designed to create a soft-focus, natural-looking finish while helping makeup stay put through long summer days.

The beauty reveal comes during one of the busiest stretches of Rodrigo's career. After becoming one of pop's defining voices with SOUR and GUTS, she has continued to evolve both musically and stylistically, embracing a fashion identity that blends vintage femininity with alternative edge.

Whether she's stepping onto a red carpet in a lace-trimmed slip dress or pairing Mary Janes with oversized leather jackets, Rodrigo has helped usher the once-nostalgic baby doll dress back into the mainstream, inspiring a new generation to embrace the playful silhouette. And yet, her style has been recently been met with backlash.

"That's been making me so upset," Rodrigo said in an interview with the New York Times'Popcast. "What's really disturbing is I feel like I have worn outfits that are revealing on stage. Like, I've been on stage in like a sparkly bra, little shorts, which is my right. That's fun. I felt cool and comfortable in that. And that wasn't 'inappropriate' – but me fully covered up in a dress that people deem to be childlike was inappropriate."

Rodrigo isn't the first to wear babydoll dresses and the like, but she's certainly put her own spin on it.

"I didn’t think that I looked sexy in that at all,” she said. “I was like, this is so cool. I feel I look like Kathleen Hanna or Courtney Love, all these people who are my heroes, and I felt cool and comfortable in it."

That willingness to mix old and new has become one of the hallmarks of her career. Much like her music draws from pop-punk, alternative rock and confessional songwriting, her personal style has turned influences from the 1990s into something distinctly modern. The result is an aesthetic that feels authentic rather than overly polished, and one that fans continue to recreate across social media.

As Rodrigo prepares to take her latest music on the road, it's clear that audiences aren't just paying attention to what she’s singing. They're watching what she's wearing, how she's styling it and, now, even the beauty products helping complete the look. For one of pop music's biggest trendsetters, the conversation extends far beyond the stage.

Related: 1976 Rock Classic, Inspired by One of the ‘Greatest Movies’ of All Time, Became a Timeless Road Trip Anthem