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Today's NYT Wordle answer is all about making things better, whether that means fixing a mistake, improving a situation or making a small change. 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 #1846 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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

Today's Wordle begins with a vowel.

There are no double letters in today's Wordle.

A hint for today's Wordle is: To make a change or correction.

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 Thursday, July 9, 2026, is AMEND.

-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)

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When it comes to supportive shoes that feel comfortable for walking, running, and workouts, it's hard to beat a pair of slip-on sneakers with excellent cushioning and a hands-free design. Popular styles can cost hundreds of dollars, but we've found a budget-friendly pair at Walmart that shoppers are snapping up quickly. The Athletic Works Banded Jogger Slip-On Sneakers hold their own against name brands, and you can snag them now in all nine colors for under $20.

Two colors are currently priced at just $13 — tan and oreo, which has a solid black upper with a speckled black-and-cream bottom. There's also a white pair available for $17, while all other hues are priced at $19 right now. No matter which style you choose, you're still getting a fantastic deal, paying under $20 for supportive running shoes that compare to well-known brands, according to shoppers.

Courtesy of Walmart

These shoes feature flyknit uppers with elastic gore creating a convenient slip-on style you can put on hands-free. They have memory foam insoles that cushion every step and non-marking outsoles with textured bottoms for extra grip. Sizes run on the half from men's 7.5 through 13, and select colors are available in wide widths. 

Despite being men's shoes, several female reviewers raved that they are "good for women who need wide footwear." I've purchased men's footwear for myself before and would suggest subtracting two whole sizes from your usual women's shoe size to get the proper fit, as these sneakers run slightly large. 

Shoppers were impressed by how much value these sneakers offered compared to pricier styles, with many people noting that they've purchased multiple pairs. "They are the most comfortable shoes I have ever worn, better than a $200 pair, that’s for sure," one shopper said, calling them "just as nice" as well-known brands.

A reviewer who previously returned popular name-brand slip-ons because they were uncomfortable purchased this Athletic Works pair instead to wear during recovery from surgery. "I love them," they raved, adding that "they look good, are easy to put on and take off, and are very comfortable." One shopper who described them as "super lightweight" said they wore these sneakers daily on a week-long cruise and experienced no foot pain or fatigue.

• Com Star Barefoot Shoes, From $18 (was $20) at Walmart
• George Men's Knit Sneakers, $13 (was $15) at Walmart
• Hobibear Men's Running Shoes, $26 (was $50) at Walmart

Related: Walmart’s 'Beautiful' $65 Freestanding Storage Cabinet Is 'Perfect for Tiny Bathrooms'

Now available for as low as $13, the Athletic Works Men's Banded Jogger Slip-On Sneakers are an absolute steal, featuring the support and style of a high-end brand for a fraction of the cost. Snag a pair (or a few!) at Walmart before they sell out.

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PatrickDempsey recently revealed whether he will be running for office in an op-ed for the Portland Press Herald. 

The actor, best known for playing Dr. Derek Shepherd in Grey's Anatomy, shared that he gave “real thought” to running for Senate in his home state of Maine following sexual assault allegations directed at Democratic nominee GrahamPlatner. 

“Over the past several days, I’ve been asked a question more than once: Would you ever run for the United States Senate?” he wrote. “It’s flattering, and I don’t take it lightly. I love my home state of Maine. I care deeply about the people who live there and, like so many Americans, I’m concerned about the direction our country is heading.”

Dempsey ultimately decided the role was a better fit for someone more qualified. 

He later wrote, “After a lot of thought, I realized the answer is no. Not because public service isn’t honorable — it absolutely is. But because I believe I can contribute more effectively through the life I’ve already built.” 

The 60-year-old actor shared that the next two weeks, searching for a new Democratic candidate to oppose Republican incumbent SusanCollins, “will be a very important time for Maine.” 

“We will choose a new Senate candidate at a time when I believe most of us want meaningful change in Washington, D.C. We should choose a candidate who offers a new approach to how we govern ourselves,” Dempsey wrote. 

Adding, “I want someone who leads with empathy. Someone who listens before speaking, who has the courage to work with people they disagree with and who understands that public office isn’t about power. It’s about service.”

Platner posted a video to social media on Wednesday announcing he is ending his campaign. His team shared that he is “not doing it because of the allegations,” but due to “the structures that are being taken away from us by those in power.”  

Not every band manages to change music history with the opening track on their debut album, but that's what King Crimson did in 1969. Just nine months after they started as a group, King Crimson released In The Court Of The Crimson King (An Observation By King Crimson), and the very first song took listeners by storm.

Clocking in at seven-and-a-half minutes, "21st Century Schizoid Man" was one of the most ambitious, experimental and unexpected tunes of the '60s, blending jazz, blues and rock to create an all-new sound (more on that later). Met with critical acclaim when it first came out, "21st Century Schizoid Man" has continued to gain fans and praise over the years; it was ranked at #104 by Pitchfork on a list of "The 200 Greatest Songs of the 1960s," and Classic Rock placed Robert Fripp's work on the track at #56 on a list of the "100 Greatest Guitar Solos in Rock."

Writing the song was an "intense" process, as lyricist Pete Sinfield told the outlet in 2016.

“I took notes as people shouted out scrambled phrases,” Sinfield recalled. “The twiddly technical bits were mainly written by Fripp, but Ian took them on as well, the two of them playing flashy counterpoints at each other. When it came to a break, Greg [Lake, bassist] said: ‘I can do ‘doom-doom-doom-doom’ on bass.’”

As for the dystopian lyrics, Sinfield said his words "fitted with the nastiness of the human condition and war and stuff. I wanted the words to sound violent and aggressive. ‘Cat’s foot, iron claw…’ — it’s the world tearing itself to pieces. I remember leaning against the mantelpiece and I suddenly got it. ‘Schizoid,' that’s a good word. Twentieth…no, we’ll take it into the future — '21st Century Schizoid Man.' I was damned pleased with that. Then Greg’s big bass riff became even more important, like a clarion call.”

The members of King Crimson realized how powerful "21st Century Schizoid Man" was when they played the song before an estimated 500,000 people while opening for the Rolling Stones...and the crowd went insane.

It's no wonder that Fripp called "21st Century Schizoid Man" the "first heavy metal song," or that Ozzy Osbourne and Voivod (among others) recorded their own versions.

“It’s a strong bit of work, from a time that was very creative, very free, no arguments,” drummer Michael Giles said, adding, “I’m amazed at how good it still sounds — and how edgy.”

“There wasn’t another song like it — and there still isn’t — using those dynamics," agreed Sinfield. "I think it’s bloody fantastic, and the song still reflects the evil man does unto man because of his greed. It’s even more relevant today."

Related: 1968 Classic Rock Hit That Invented Heavy Metal Became a Generation-Defining Anthem

Some books capture readers' attention almost overnight. Others become full-fledged publishing phenomena.

Callie Hart's Quicksilver has done exactly that. The bestselling fantasy romance novel is currently ranked among Goodreads' most-read books of the year, a list based on the titles readers have marked as finished throughout the year. The latest recognition underscores just how quickly the novel has become one of the biggest breakout hits in contemporary fiction.

Originally published in 2024, Quicksilver found an enthusiastic audience through word-of-mouth recommendations, BookTok and online reading communities before becoming a bestseller. Its blend of high fantasy, romance, adventure and morally complex characters helped it stand out in the increasingly popular romantasy genre.

Set in a richly imagined world filled with magic, danger and political intrigue, the novel follows Saeris Fane, a resourceful young woman whose life changes dramatically after she crosses paths with the mysterious Kingfisher. As their paths become intertwined, the story unfolds through unexpected alliances, powerful enemies and slow-burning romance, keeping readers invested across its expansive fantasy setting.

"The characters just kind of took shape, and then wouldn't leave me alone," Hart told The Nerd Daily. "Kingfisher and Saeris were the first two major components of the story that really came to me first, and then then rest of their story, their worlds, and the challenges they face followed after. I have always been fascinated by the concept of Alchemy and transmutation, so I knew I wanted to create a story that revolved around that at its center."

The novel's popularity has continued to grow thanks to social media, where readers frequently praise its immersive world-building, emotional stakes and memorable cast of characters. Reviews and recommendation videos have helped introduce Quicksilver to countless new readers, turning it into one of the year’s most talked-about fantasy releases.

Its placement among Goodreads' most-read books reflects more than strong sales alone. Because the ranking is based on books users have actually marked as completed, it offers a snapshot of the titles readers are actively finishing and recommending throughout the year.

For Hart, the success marks a major milestone in an already accomplished writing career. Long known for her romance novels, she has reached an even wider audience with Quicksilver, attracting both longtime fans and newcomers eager to explore the rapidly expanding romantasy genre.

"For me, a good story never takes you down the road you were expecting," Hart told Page Six. "You’ll find yourself lost along the way … but not minding the detour one little bit."

The success of Quicksilver has also fueled interest in the rest of the series. Its sequel, Brimstone, has continued the story of Saeris and Kingfisher, while anticipation is already building for the third novel, Emberclaw, as fans eagerly await the next chapter in Hart's fantasy world.

"I have planned out the whole story," Hart told E! Newsof the series. "I was very aware that when you're dealing with such large world building, and a lot of through line stories, I didn't want to find myself in a position in book three where I'm like, 'Oh man, I've really backed myself into a corner here and I and I don't know how to fix this.'"

As Quicksilver continues to rank among Goodreads' most-read books of the year, its momentum shows little sign of slowing. What began as a breakout fantasy romance has quickly become one of the defining books readers have embraced this year, cementing Callie Hart's place among today’s most popular authors.

Related: Best-Selling Author's Novel Ranked Among ‘Best Books Ever’ on Goodreads

As if anyone needed any further evidence of David Bowie's genius: The iconic musician just reached an all-time career high, over a decade after his death on January 10, 2016.

According to Forbes, Bowie's compilation album, Legacy, just hit a staggering 500 weeks on the U.K. Official Albums chart (in addition to racking up 500 weeks on the Official Albums Streaming chart). This gives Legacy a huge lead over the Thin White Duke's next longest-charting album, The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust, at 168 weeks.

The posthumous collection, released in November 2016 as a single and a double-disc, is similar to Bowie's 2014 greatest hits album, Nothing Has Changed, with some swaps/additions (including "Lazarus," "I Can't Give Everything Away," and a previously unreleased version of "Life on Mars?").

During his lifetime, Bowie's best-selling album was 1983's Let's Dance. Each of the record's four singles — "Let's Dance," "China Girl," "Modern Love" and "Without You" — were all hits. Unfortunately, Bowie felt limited creatively in the aftermath of the album's success.

“I went mainstream in a major way with the song ‘Let’s Dance,'" he told Interview magazine. "I pandered to that in my next few albums, and what I found I had done was put a box around myself. It was very hard for people to see me as anything other than the person in the suit who did ‘Let’s Dance,’ and it was driving me mad — because it took all my passion for experimenting away.”

Of course, Bowie still had decades of groundbreaking creativity left in him after Let's Dance, as fans know.

After his death, Rob Sheffield of Rolling Stone called Bowie "the greatest rock star who ever fell to this or any other world."

"He was the hottest tramp, the slinkiest vagabond, the prettiest star who ever shouted 'You’re not alone!' to an arena full of the world’s loneliest kids," Sheffield wrote.

"He was the most human and most alien of rock artists, turning to face the strange, speaking to the freak in everyone," he continued. "He stared into your twitchy teenage eyes to assure you that you’ve torn your dress and your face is a mess, yet that’s precisely why you’re a juvenile success. Whichever Bowie you loved best — the glam starman, the wispy balladeer, the Berlin archduke — he made you feel braver and freer, which is why the world felt different after you heard Bowie. This man’s spaceship always knew which way to go."

Related: This 1977 Hit Was Ranked 'Best Rock Love Song' of All Time

Country singer Corey Kent is getting ready to release a new collaboration with Jason Aldean as he continues a busy 2026 that already includes a new album and major tour appearances.

Kent will release the song, titled "I'd Rather Be Here," on July 17. The announcement came directly from the singer through social media.

On Instagram, Kent shared a video featuring clips from his live performances on stage and revealed the collaboration in the caption.

“I’d Rather Be Here” - Corey Kent ft Jason Aldean - coming 7.17”

The announcement quickly drew attention from country music fans, especially because of the close friendship that has grown between the two artists in recent years.

Photo by Joshua Applegate/Billboard via Getty Images

The upcoming release arrives as Kent continues building momentum following several successful singles and an expanding touring schedule throughout 2026.

The new collaboration marks another chapter in the growing connection between Kent and Aldean, who spent time together during Aldean's overseas Full Throttle Tour earlier this year.

Their relationship has extended far beyond sharing concert stages.

During an interview earlier in 2026, Kent spoke openly about how much Aldean has meant to him both personally and professionally, especially during difficult moments in his life.

After the death of Kent's grandfather, the singer revealed that very few people knew about the loss. Despite that, Aldean reached out with a personal message of support.

Per Taste of Country, Kent recalled receiving a text message from the country superstar.

"Dude, I'm so sorry about your papa. Thinking of you. Love you, bro."

The gesture left a lasting impression on Kent, who described Aldean as much more than a tour headliner or fellow artist.

"It's deeper than work with Jason, he's become big brother. He's a hero."

Kent also spoke about looking up to Aldean long before they became friends.

"To have that guy that you listened to on the radio and looked up to...this guy is a bona fied rockstar. For that guy to be texting you about the loss of your grandpa just makes you realize that at the end of the day these are just living breathing people with a heart that care about you."

The Oklahoma native later summed up their friendship by saying:

"I'm closer to Aldean than anybody in country music."

The release of "I'd Rather Be Here" comes during one of the busiest periods of Kent's career.

In May, the singer announced that his upcoming album, Heartland Rock and Roll, will arrive on Sept. 25, 2026, through Sony Music Nashville.

The 16-track project represents what Kent describes as the sound he has been chasing throughout his career.

“Heartland Rock and Roll is my third major label album, and it’s really the first time I’ve been able to finally name the sound I’ve been working towards my entire career.”

Kent explained to Music Row that the album reflects his upbringing and personal experiences.

“These songs sound like where I’m from. The lyrics span from nostalgia, to honest regrets and gratitude for the simple things I value most in life. From top to bottom, this is me. Every artist wants to leave their mark in music… a way to say, ‘I was here and I did it my way.’ This feels like mine. This is heartland rock and roll.”

The project follows the success of previous releases including Blacktop and Black Bandana.

Kent has steadily climbed country music's ranks since breaking through with "Wild as Her," which earned multi-platinum status and became his first major radio success.

Recent singles including "Rocky Mountain Low," featuring Koe Wetzel, along with "Empty Words," "Wannabe" and "Cigarette Burns" have continued that momentum heading into the album launch.

The singer has now surpassed one billion career streams and has become one of the fastest-rising names in modern country music.

Related: Country Star Is Suddenly Climbing the Charts 24 Years After No. 1 Hit

Some cleaning tasks always seem to take twice as long as they should, and tackling them becomes a giant chore. Scrubbing shower corners, reaching behind faucets and trying to get grime out of grout can require a lot of bending, stretching and elbow grease, especially when a regular sponge or brush doesn't quite reach the problem spots.

Aldi shoppers looking for an easier way to make those frustrating areas sparkle need this returning favorite cleaning gadget. The retailer's Ambiano White/Black Electric Scrubber is designed to make everyday cleaning less of a workout by helping handle repetitive scrubbing tasks around the home. Sign me up!

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The compact electric scrub brush comes with four interchangeable heads, making it useful for a variety of surfaces and cleaning jobs. The different attachments can help with everything from bathroom tile and shower glass to kitchen sinks, backsplashes, grout lines, and other hard-to-reach areas where dirt and buildup tend to collect.

Aldi

At $9.99, Aldi's Ambiano Electric Scrubber is an affordable alternative to pricier power scrubbers on the market. It is lightweight and portable, with a non-slip grip for a more secure hold while cleaning.

One of the biggest benefits of an electric scrub brush is that it can help reduce the strain of cleaning. Instead of repeatedly scrubbing the same spot by hand or kneeling to reach low areas, the spinning brush helps take care of some of the repetitive motion for you. This can be especially helpful for routine bathroom maintenance and quick cleaning sessions.

Related: Aldi's Fan-Favorite $15 Kitchen Essential Makes Easy Meals a Total Breeze

The Ambiano Electric Scrubber is best suited for everyday messes like soap scum, light grime and surface-level buildup. While it can make regular upkeep easier, it may not replace heavy-duty cleaning methods for tough stains, deep mineral deposits or years-old grime.

For the best results, avoid pressing down too hard while using the scrubber. Let the motor and brush attachment do the work, as too much pressure can slow it down. Choosing the right brush head for the job also makes a difference: smaller attachments are useful for corners and grout lines, while larger heads work better on wider surfaces.

For shoppers who want to spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying a clean home, Aldi's Ambiano Electric Scrubber is a simple, budget-friendly tool that could make those annoying cleaning jobs a little easier.

Related: Aldi's 5-Compartment Organizer Is a Game Changer for Lego Lovers

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Accessories can make all the difference in an outfit. The right pieces of jewelry have the power to transform a simple, no-frills ensemble into something that looks refined and intentional. If you want to give your collection a refresh, look for on-trend pieces that toe the line between subtle and eye-catching so you can style them with any kind of attire. 

Capturing the essence of the quiet luxury trend, these Adornia Freshwater Pearl Drop Earrings are a fantastic example that's sure to become a regular in your everyday accessory rotation. Right now, you can score them on sale for a whopping 69% off during Nordstrom Rack's annual Clear the Rack Sale. Normally retailing for $75, they’re now marked down to just $23! 

Courtesy of Nordstrom Rack

Glamorous yet understated, these earrings feature freshwater pearls and cubic zirconia crystals, so they’ll add a luxe touch to your look without feeling ostentatious. Freshwater pearls dangling at the ends of these earrings perfectly encompass the old-money aesthetic. They’re classy and timeless, ensuring that they’ll never go out of style. 

Because these freshwater pearls are natural, their size and shape may vary, ranging between 9 millimeters and 10 millimeters. Each pearl has an asymmetrical shape and a unique feel, which only adds to its charm. 

Adding some glam and flair, the base of the earrings is adorned with cubic zirconia crystals. The crystals are pavé set, creating continuous rows that help them stand out. While the cubic zirconia crystals may not be real diamonds, they’re a great affordable alternative. They mimic the appearance of the real deal with their brilliance and high clarity. The crystals are also faceted with multiple flat surfaces to catch and reflect light from various angles, emitting a constant sparkle. 

• Adornia Freshwater Pearl Necklace, $25 (was $125) at Nordstrom Rack
• Effy Freshwater Pearl Bracelet, $35 (was $90) at Nordstrom Rack
• Adornia Crystal Toggle Tennis Necklace, $20 (was $95) at Nordstrom Rack

For an additional touch of luxury, these earrings are plated with 14-karat gold for a polished finish. They have a French wire post that’ll sit comfortably on your earlobes. The post threads through the piercing and curves down for a secure hold, eliminating the need for a backing. 

These earrings have a 1-inch drop, designed to frame the upper portion of your face and draw attention to your features. The pearl is attached to the post by a delicate chain link and will sway along with your movements. Shoppers said they adore the style of these earrings and described them as “beautiful.”

The versatility of these earrings is unmatched. Dainty in nature, they’ll complement nearly any kind of outfit that you put together. You can pair them with casual attire like streetwear and athleisure, or dressy ensembles like chic office wear and cocktail dresses. However you choose to style these earrings, they’ll elevate your look with elegance and sophistication. 

If you want even the simplest of outfits to exude quiet luxury, don’t hesitate to grab the Adornia Freshwater Pearl Drop Earrings at Nordstrom Rack while they're on sale for just $23! 

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.

Chipotle is giving away 80,000 free entrées between Wednesday, July 8, and Wednesday, July 29!

The chain has partnered with the PGA TOUR 2K25 video game for the Chipotle Hot Streak Quest, giving customers a chance to score codes for free entrées and double protein.

Here's how to earn your free codes before the offer ends.

First, you'll have to buy the PGA TOUR 2K25 video game, if you don't own it already, and complete the three themed chapters in MyCAREER mode. The chapters include in-game rewards like a taco-head putter and foil-themed golf attire.

The first players to finish the quest can claim one of 80,000 free entrée codes and double protein codes—available while supplies last through July 29.

The promotion is open to U.S. residents aged 18 or older, and winners can redeem their code in the Chipotle app until Sept. 30, 2026.

Chipotle fans can buy PGA TOUR 2K25 digitally on their PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch and more or physically at local retailers.

RELATED: Chipotle Just Started Testing Crispy Chicken—and Fans Already Want It Nationwide

Chipotle Rewards members can also enter the Chipotle Golf Collectible Sweepstakes for a chance to win a pitch mark repair tool—the tool golfers use to fix the small crater a golf ball leaves when it lands on the soft putting green.

The sweepstakes runs from July 8 to Wednesday, July 22, and the 100 winners will be selected randomly.

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The Pitt Season 2 caused a stir with fans. Sepideh Moafi joined the cast and the background of her character was a mystery throughout the episodes. She stuck the landing in the finale with an emotional moment. Moafi, 40, made Emmy history for her portrayal of the new doctor and gave her reaction to the news.

Photograph by Warrick Page/HBO Max

Moafi earned her first Emmy nomination for playing Dr. Baran Al-Hashimi on The Pitt. She is the first Iranian woman and woman from the Middle East to be nominated in the support actress in a drama series category, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

"I can’t imagine a more ideal world, show, character to have this sort of recognition with," Moafi said after the news. "Playing this woman who carries so many worlds, so many of which I can identify with in my own way, and that I’ve heard over the last several months, so many people identify with, whether it’s with her chronic disease, her chronic illness, people with disability, people who are mixed race, people who are from the Middle East or Africa, women in medicine who are in similar positions and have to deal with certain male counterparts."

Al-Hashimi revealed her seizure disorder to Dr. Michael 'Robby' Robinavitch (Noah Wyle) in the finale. He told her she had to reveal it to other people in the hospital because it could be a liability.

The character is also Iranian and Iraqi, which led to an interesting conversation with one of her patients. Moafi will return to the medical show in season 3.

Related: Why Bryan Cranston Says His Daughter’s Acting on ‘The Pitt’ Has Him Beat

The HBO series was nominated 25 times this year, which is the most for any show. The Pitt is nominated for Outstanding drama series.

Four cast members are competing in the same category. Moafi, Taylor Dearden, Fiona Dourif, and Katherine LaNasaare up for supporting actress in a drama series.

Three cast members are in the male version of the category. Patrick Ball, Shawn Hatosy, and Gerran Howell are nominated for their work.

Guest actors Brittany Allen, Tal Anderson, Tina Ivlev, Ernest Harden Jr., and Jeff Kober are nominated in the outstanding guest actor in a drama series categories.

Wyle is nominated for outstanding directing for a drama series for the episode, "12 P.M." The emergency room team loses a beloved patient. Charge Nurse Dana Evans mentors a new nurse for her first day, which gives more insight to their job. He's also nominated for his role in the outstanding lead actor in a drama series.

Writer Valerie Chu is nominated for writing the same episode. Kirsten Pierre-Geyfman and R. Scott Gemmill are nominated in the same category for the episode, "1 P.M."

The 78th annual Primetime Emmy Awards will air live on NBC on Sunday, Sept. 14. Mariska Hargitay of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit is hosting the award show.

Related: ‘The Pitt’ Season 2 Finale Teased Season 3’s Emotional Theme

Emmy Rossum is opening up about the long road that led to motherhood.

On the Wednesday, July 8 episode of the Call Her Daddy podcast, the Shameless alum revealed she conceived her daughter through IVF after years of trying, and the process left her with a number she never saw coming: 72 eggs.

Rossum, 39, said she was diagnosed with PCOS, the hormonal disorder recently renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), and dealt with debilitating ovarian cysts throughout her 20s. She tried to get pregnant naturally, then through IUI, with no luck, before turning to IVF with her husband, Sam Esmail. "It happened in a big way," she said.

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A side effect of the condition, she explained, is that some patients become a "super responder." After a single egg retrieval, her doctors woke her up with the news. "They said that I had 72 eggs, which was trippy and bizarre," Rossum said. She and Esmail welcomed their daughter on May 24, 2021, then had a son in April 2023.

Rossum also got candid about the day she gave birth, admitting she brushed off her early contractions. She gave Esmail a haircut, cleaned the house and ordered Thai food before it clicked. Then she refused to leave for the hospital until after a Knicks game, laboring over an exercise ball while she watched as her mom urged her to just get the epidural. She labored through the night and took an Uber to the hospital the next morning.

The actress, who has starred in projects like the AppleTV+ series The Crowded Room, next appears in Furious, premiering on Hulu July 27.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, text 'HOME' to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741.

Jason Aldean and David Lee Murphy recently joined forces to deliver an intimate acoustic performance of the latter’s 1995 chart-topper “Dust on the Bottle.” 

The all-star duet is one of the song's featured on Aldean’s popular video series known as the Fireside Sessions, which showcases stripped-down versions of songs with some of his favorite bandmates, friends, and collaborators. The rendition of “Dust on the Bottle” gives fans a chance to listen to the song in a whole new way following the recorded version of the pair’s collaboration, which appears on Aldean’s Songs About Us album, released earlier this year.  

"Always a blast with @DavidLeeMurphy. 27 years of friendship and still going strong," Aldean captioned a portion of the performance on Instagram on Wednesday, July 8. "Watch our Fireside Session of “Dust on the Bottle,” out now."

In the full-length performance clip, Aldean and Murphy are shown seated in wooden chairs, strumming guitars. The Georgia-born Aldean, 49, takes the first verse, showcasing his smooth signature vocals on the song while tapping his boot. After a harmony-filled chorus, ‘90s country icon Murphy, 67, jumps in to throw his distinctive vocals on the second verse before backing musicians take turns offering up some instrumental breaks.  

Written by Murphy, “Dust on the Bottle” is a light-hearted track about making memories with a significant other over an old, homemade bottle of wine that was made from a real-life buddy named Creole Williams. According to a 2020 interview with The Boot, the lyrics of the song didn’t take very long for Murphy to write. 

“I started playing the opening chords on my guitar for ‘Dust on the Bottle.’ It just came out of nowhere. The song just fell out in, like, 15 minutes,” he told the outlet. “I called Tony Brown, who was producing my record, and I told him, 'Man, I just wrote this new song!" We had all the songs picked out already for the album. He told me to bring it in and play it for him that day. When he heard the song, he said, "Man, we've got to cut this.”

Released in August of 1995 as the fourth single from Murphy’s Platinum-certified album, Out With a Bang, “Dust on the Bottle” became the singer’s first chart-topper and biggest hit to date, peaking at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. 

Aldean’s duet version of the track appears on his twelfth studio album, Songs About Us, which also features guest vocals from his wife Brittany Aldean on “Easier Gone” and fellow country star Luke Bryan on the title track.

Related: 1980 No. 1 Hit, Lasting 19 Weeks on the Charts, Ranked ‘Greatest Country Song of All Time’

Margaret Qualley is drawing attention for her recent Instagram activity following reports that she and husband Jack Antonoff have separated.

According to a report from People published Wednesday, July 8, sources say The Substance actress and the Bleachers frontman have decided to separate after nearly three years of marriage. One source described the relationship as "rocky," while another said the pair are trying to "figure things out." No further details about the reported split have been shared.

Qualley, 31, and Antonoff, 42, married on Aug. 19, 2023, after first being romantically linked in 2021.

Even before news of the reported separation surfaced, fans had begun speculating that something was amiss after noticing Qualley quietly removed several Instagram posts featuring her husband. Among the missing photos were pictures from the couple's wedding, fueling rumors that the pair had split.

RELATED: Margaret Qualley and Jack Antonoff Separate After 3 Years of ‘Rocky’ Marriage

The actress also appeared to leave just one photo of Antonoff on her Instagram—a candid photo of the two laughing together shared back in February.

However, shortly after the separation news went public, fans noticed that Qualley had added the previously archived wedding photos back to her profile.

Additionally, fans also pointed out other recent changes on Qualley's social media. In April, she changed her Instagram username from @isimostar—a reference to "Isimo," a song by Antonoff's band Bleachers—to @sarahmargaretqualley23.

Despite the alleged split, the pair still follow each other on Instagram.

Qualley was also noticeably absent when Antonoff attended Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's Madison Square Garden wedding on Friday, July 3. Antonoff has been a longtime collaborator of Swift's, working on everyone one of her studio albums since ⁠1989 in 2014.

Neither Qualley nor Antonoff has publicly commented on their relationships status.

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"Wannabe" by the Spice Girls turns 30 years old today!

On July 8, 1996, the girl group released the debut single from their first album, Spice. The song quickly became a global phenomenon, reaching No. 1 in 22 countries by the end of that year, including on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S.

Its momentum only grew in 1997, when it topped charts in 37 countries, eventually setting the record as the all-time best-selling single by a girl group. In 2014, a study found “Wannabe” to be the most recognizable pop song of the previous 60 years among young English speakers.

To celebrate the track that launched their careers, Spice Girls Victoria Beckham, Emma Bunton, Mel B, Mel C, and Geri Halliwell took to Instagram to mark the occasion.

"I can’t believe it’s been 30 years since 'Wannabe' came out! The debut single that forever changed our lives... I’ll always be grateful to have been a part of that journey," Beckham wrote. "Thank you so much to our fans for all their love and support over all these years and to my @spicegirls sisters, I love you all so much!!!"

"30 Years of Wannabe … Thank you to my beautiful spice sisters," Halliwell added. "And thank you to the fans for joining us #FriendshipNeverEnds … 💕."

"Happy birthday Wannabe, 30 years! Love you all 💕 thank you!" Bunton said.

"30 years of girl power! Happy Birthday Wannabe🥳," wrote Mel C. "The song that changed our lives forever 🇬🇧✌🏼❤️."

Mel B, for her part, posted her tribute to Instagram on June 26, the anniversary of Wannabe's release in Japan on June 26, 1996 as a maxi CD.

"WOWZAAAA this song changed my life forever… and changed the lives of my 4 spice sisters too… what a journey its been," Mel B captioned her post. "honestly when we recorded it we could never have imagined what was about to happen…every single day im sooo thankful… thankful for my 4 sisters… thankful for every memory… and most of all thankful for our beautiful amazing fans who have been with us from the very beginning…30 yrs later and your still singing dancing laughing and celebrating with us… thank you thank you THANK YOU ❤️."

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If you want to keep shoes by the door without leaving every pair out on display, Walmart has a deal worth seeing. The bestselling Bgtrend 3-Tier Covered Shoe Rack is on a flash deal for just $14 right now, down from $22. It comes in black, and the lowest price is for the three-tier option, but you can also choose from five-, seven-, or nine-tier versions if you need more storage.

The three-tier rack is designed to hold up to 12 pairs of shoes and measures 27.8 by 11.8 by 14.2 inches. It’s made with non-woven fabric, a metal frame, and plastic connectors. The shelves are removable, so you can adjust the storage space for different shoe heights, and the cover can flip up 180 degrees for access. It’s also designed to help keep dust off shoes while hiding the pairs you don’t want sitting out in the open.

Courtesy of Walmart

The hidden storage is what really sets this rack apart from a basic open shoe shelf. This gives shoes a place to go while the fabric cover keeps the area looking cleaner, which definitely makes a difference in small apartments, narrow hallways, or shared closets where visible clutter can make the entire space feel messier. And since the three-tier size is under 28 inches wide, it fits in tighter spaces without taking up much floor space.

One reviewer called it the “perfect storage solution,” noting it’s “super easy to put together,” while another described it as “very sturdy.” “This saves floor space, and it closes, so my shoes can be hidden,” another person wrote. A third shopper said it’s “great for organizing shoes,” adding that assembly was simple and required no tools.

Related: Walmart's $38 Retro 4-Drawer Floral Dresser Is a 'Pretty' Storage Upgrade for Any Home

While this rack would be especially useful near an entryway, it can also be tucked inside a coat closet or beside a back door where extra shoes tend to pile up. It could even work in a garage for seasonal pairs of boots or in a bedroom closet if shelf space is already maxed out. If you have more shoes to store, the taller versions are worth checking out before you choose.

• Baokaler 10-Tier Covered Shoe Rack, $21 (was $37) at Walmart
• Sakugi 3-Tier Shoe Rack, $12 (was $25) at Walmart
• Scidweet Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer, $11 (was $18) at Walmart

This Walmart bestseller is a smart grab if your shoes need a better home, but you don’t want to spend much on a storage piece. Since it’s a flash deal and the lowest-priced option is marked down to just $14, now is a great time to add the Bgtrend 3-Tier Covered Shoe Rack to your cart.

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.

If there's one thing Grillo's Pickles has mastered — besides making seriously good pickles — it's keeping fans guessing. The cult-favorite brand has become just as well known for its delightfully unexpected collaborations as it has for its fresh, crunchy spears.

Over the past year alone, Grillo's has ventured far beyond the pickle jar, teaming up with Burt's Bees on a dill-inspired lip balm, partnering with Pabst Blue Ribbon for a pickle-flavored beer, and even blending its signature brine into a surprisingly refreshing Smoothie King pickle smoothie.

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Now, Grillo's is adding another unexpected snack to its growing list of quirky collaborations — this time with artisan cracker maker Firehook.

Courtesy Firehook Crackers

The two brands have joined forces to launch Grillo's Pickles Dill Pickle Crackers, a limited-edition Firehook snack that captures the bright, tangy flavor Grillo's fans know and love in an irresistibly crunchy bite. Instead of simply sprinkling on pickle seasoning, Firehook worked to recreate the unmistakable flavor of Grillo's signature pickle brine, delivering a cracker that's equal parts savory, zesty and snackable.

It's a pairing that makes perfect sense. Firehook has built a reputation for premium, artisan-baked crackers made with simple ingredients and bold flavors, while Grillo's has become the unofficial king of pickle-powered collaborations. Together, they've created a snack that's just as at home on a charcuterie board as it is straight out of the bag.

Related: Mug's First Limited-Edition Flavor Is the Nostalgic Dirty Soda You Didn't Know You Needed

Whether you're pairing them with cheese, layering them into lunch, dipping them into your favorite spread or enjoying them solo, these crackers are designed for pickle lovers who believe there's no such thing as too much dill.

The collaboration also continues a growing trend of playful partnerships in the snack aisle. Firehook has previously collaborated with brands like Graza, Fly by Jing and Ithaca Hummus to create limited-edition crackers inspired by fan-favorite flavors, making Grillo's the latest brand to receive the Firehook treatment.

At this point, nothing seems off-limits for Grillo's — and that's exactly why fans keep coming back for more. Whether it's lip balm, beer, smoothies or now crackers, the brand has found a way to transform its signature pickle flavor into products that spark curiosity and plenty of conversation.

One thing's for sure — Grillo's isn't running out of ideas anytime soon, and pickle fans are more than happy to see what the brand dreams up next.

Related: Fans Are Calling Costco's Ready-to-Eat, Protein-Packed Snack 'Unexpectedly Fantastic'

If you think pop music and Shakespeare have nothing to do with each other, well, it might be time to think again. The Bard influenced some of the most iconic songs of our time, from Bob Dylan's "Desolation Row," which namechecks Romeo and Ophelia, to Dire Straits' "Romeo and Juliet" and so many, many more. Another irresistibly catchy example? Nick Lowe's smash '70s hit, "Cruel to Be Kind."

Released as a single in 1979, "Cruel to Be Kind" peaked at #12 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it Lowe's biggest success in America. It's been a radio mainstay ever since; with the kind of chorus that makes everybody sing along:

You gotta be
Cruel to be kind in the right measure
Cruel to be kind it's a very good sign
Cruel to be kind means that I love you
Baby, you gotta be cruel to be kind

Taken from Hamlet, the old "cruel to be kind" quote (originally spoken by the Danish prince to his mother, Gertrude) turned out to be just as relevant when applied to a very different type of toxic relationship. But it was really written to get people out on the dance floor, as Lowe told The Guardian in 2021.

"I wrote this song when I was still in the group Brinsley Schwarz," Lowe recalled. "As a '70s pub-rock band, it was kind of taboo for us to admit to liking disco, but we were fans, and I was in love with Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes’ 'The Love I Lost.' So the original version of 'Cruel to Be Kind' was my attempt at a floor-filler for when we played clubs and freshers’ balls."

Brinsley Scwarz recorded "Cruel to Be Kind," but the album it was meant for didn't end up being released until years later. In the meantime, Lowe signed with Columbia A&R man Gregg Geller, who took a liking to the unreleased song.

"Each time he rang me, he’d mention 'Cruel to Be Kind,'" Lowe said. "But by 1979, I was this hip new wave producer who’d worked with Elvis Costello, Graham Parker and the Damned, and the song sounded embarrassingly pre-new wave to me. So I’d respond unenthusiastically. 'Oh yeah, you like that, Gregg? Great. But I’ve got a better song here about a woman who was eaten by her dog.'"

Thankfully, Geller persisted. "Cruel to Be Kind" went on to become a permanent pop culture fixture, thanks in part to a memorable cover of the tune in the similarly Shakespeare-inspired teen blockbuster, 10 Things I Hate About You. Billboard ranked "Cruel to Be Kind" at #152 on a list of the "500 Best Pop Songs of All Time," praising the song as "an ode to tough love and heartache, but with a driving soul-pop rhythm, clever lyrics (yep, he rhymes bona fide with coincide) and pristine harmonies that spell-out 'earworm' in extra bold letters."

Michael Putland / Getty Images

Decades after its release, in 2011, Lowe reflected on the legacy of "Cruel to Be Kind" in an interview with GQ.

"When I had my couple of hits, I sort of felt like I was ticking a box more than, 'Great, I’m off now on a chart-topping career,'" Lowe explained. "I felt that in order to do what I wanted to do, I had to do certain things, and one of them was to have a hit in my own right. At least one. I managed two or three, if you take in Europe."

"But in the United States, where it really matters, I had one hit and people still remember it, and it’s a pretty good little song, you know?" he continued. "And we do it now rather like it was when I first thought it up, which was a copy of 'The Love I Lost' by Harold Melvin the Blue Notes. And I love doing it. I really love it. It cheers people up. How I do it now sounds quite different. In fact, it was on the radio the other day and I was quite amazed how differently I do it now. If they’re good songs, they really will stand the test of time."

Shakespeare would likely agree.

Related: 1983 One-Hit Wonder Ranked Among 'Best Inspirational Songs of All Time' Climbed the Charts Again 14 Years Later

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! Today’s NYT Mini Crossword puzzle features a mix of everyday objects, yummy foods, holiday references and more. There’s even one that refers to a modern internet term involving personal information.

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 Thursday, July 9, 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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Here are additional clues for each of the words in today's Mini Crossword.

1 Across: Something to look for while circling the block — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"

5 Across: Grow weary —HINT: Starts with the letter "T"

6 Across: This clue number x 2 — HINT: Ends with the letter "N"

7 Across: Rice-shaped pasta — HINT: Ends with the letter "O"

8 Across: December 25th, for short — HINT: Starts with the letter "X"

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

1 Down: Calm before the ___ — HINT: Starts with the letter "S"

2 Down: Favorite food of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles — HINT: Starts with the letter "P"

3 Down: Black-and-white cookies — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

4 Down: (This clue number x 2) + 2 — HINT: Starts with the letter "T"

6 Down: Release personal information about, informally — HINT: Ends with the letter "X"

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

1 Across: Something to look for while circling the block — SPOT

5 Across: Grow weary —TIRE

6 Across: This clue number x 2 — DOZEN

7 Across: Rice-shaped pasta — ORZO

8 Across: December 25th, for short — XMAS

1 Down: Calm before the ___ — STORM

2 Down: Favorite food of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles — PIZZA

3 Down: Black-and-white cookies — OREOS

4 Down: (This clue number x 2) + 2 — TEN

6 Down: Release personal information about, informally — DOX

Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Jessica Alba is loving life on the beach in Italy with her man.

In two separate Instagram posts shared on Wednesday night, the actress gave her followers a glimpse into her Italian getaway with Danny Ramirez, which was complete with flirty beach pics, images of delicious-looking pasta and desserts, and a sweet selfie video recapping their time together.

"La dolce vita with mi amor," she captioned the reel, highlighting their trip which was complete with cuddles and PDA between the two.

Her post also consisted of a photo of a sweet quote that read: "To travel with somebody you love is to see the world through the same eyes and fall in love together."

And fans couldn't get enough.

"Obsessed with this whole era for you!!!!" one wrote.

"Looooking [sic] VERY happy girly!!!" while another agreed, "You look amazing and happy. Enjoy your vacation."

However several followers couldn't help but comment on Alba's youthful look.

"She doesn’t age!! one said, with another adding, "The abs and you are the ultimate goal."

The trip for Alba, 46, and Ramirez, 33, comes after the two attended Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding on July 3.

"We love love," the Honey actress captioned a batch of photos, which featured Ramirez before heading out to the nuptials in New York City. "Congrats to T&T - such a beautiful night celebrating you."

Related: Jessica Alba Wows in Fiery Corset and Daring Sheer Bustier in New Photos

While Alba and Ramirez were first romantically linked in July, following her divorce from Cash Warren, they went Instagram official with a photo from a trip to Australia in October.

Since then she regularly posts with Ramirez, also an actor, whom she often refers to as "Mi Amor" in photo captions.

The actress and Warren were married from 2008 to 2024 and have three kids together.

“It’s now time for us to embark on a new chapter of growth and evolution as individuals," Alba wrote in an Instagram announcement in January of 2025. "We are moving forward with love, kindness and respect for each other and will forever be a family. Our children remain our highest priority and we request privacy at this time.”

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