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To solve Today's NYT Connections puzzle you'll need to look for impersonations, old-time names for modern things, phrases that refer to positive feelings. 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 #1118 onFriday, July 3, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Friday, July 3, 2026 / New York Times

New York Times

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Friday'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 Friday, July 3

1. Supportive emotions.
2. Totally tubular would be another one.
3. Gifts no one wants.
4. Earl Grey, hot.

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 Friday, July 3:

1. POSITIVE FEELINGS: BLISS, FELICITY, HAPPINESS, WARM FUZZIES
2. RETRO EXPRESSIONS OF APPROVAL: COOL BEANS, FAR OUT, GROOVY, RIGHT ON
3. BAD THINGS TO GIVE SOMEONE: COLD SHOULDER, DIRTY LOOK, HARD TIME, RUNAROUND
4. WHAT THINGS PRONOUNCED "T" MIGHT REFER TO: GOLF ACCESSORY, GOSSIP, HOT DRINK, SHIRT

How'd you do?

Up Next:

- 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day
- Hints, Clues and Answers to the NYT's 'Mini Crossword' Puzzle

Did You Miss a Few Days? Let's Catch You Up With Recent Connections Answers

Related: NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Thursday, July 2, 2026

Today's NYT Wordle answer refers to and object exchanged during relay race. 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 #1840 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

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

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

Today's Wordle begins with a consonant.

Are there any double letters?

There are no double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle

A hint for today's Wordle is: Can refer to a smooth, hollow cylinder exchanged in relay races.

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 #1840 on Friday, July 3, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Friday, July 3, 2026, is BATON.

-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)

Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, heading to a neighborhood picnic, or packing a cooler for the lake, there's a good chance a last-minute grocery run will end up on your holiday to-do list. From hamburger buns and fresh produce to chips, ice, beverages, and desserts, Independence Day often sends shoppers back to the store for those forgotten essentials.

If Safeway is part of your holiday plans, it's worth checking before you head out. While many grocery stores remain open during the holiday weekend, some adjust their schedules or operate with modified hours depending on the location. Knowing when your neighborhood Safeway is open can help you cross everything off your shopping list without an unexpected detour.

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Independence Day is one of the busiest grocery shopping holidays of the summer, and Safeway is often a go-to destination for everything from grilling staples and deli favorites to bakery treats and ready-to-serve side dishes. Before making a trip, here's what shoppers should know about the store's holiday schedule.

Is Safeway Open on Fourth of July?

ablokhin / Getty Images

Yes. Most Safeway stores are expected to be open on Saturday, July 4, 2026, although holiday hours may vary by location. Safeway's holiday information indicates that stores generally remain open on Independence Day, but individual locations may adjust their schedules based on local needs.

Related: Here Are 21 Essentials You Need for the Best Fourth of July Party

What Are Safeway's Fourth of July Hours?

Safeway does not publish one nationwide holiday schedule that applies to every location. Instead, most stores are expected to operate during their regular business hours, while some may open later or close earlier for the holiday.

Because store hours can vary by market, shoppers should confirm their local Safeway's hours before heading out. Some in-store departments, including pharmacies, may also keep different holiday hours than the grocery store itself. If you're planning to pick up burgers, hot dogs, beverages, ice, or other cookout essentials, checking your neighborhood store's hours ahead of time can help keep your Fourth of July plans running smoothly. Customers can verify holiday hours by using Safeway's online store locator or by calling their local store directly before making the trip.

Related: Checkers and Rally's Fourth of July Deal Has a Very Patriotic Price Tag

Willie Nelson had already cemented his place as one of country music's biggest stars by the summer of 1980. But on July 3 of that year, the outlaw country legend took a chance that would expand his legacy far beyond the recording studio.

That's when Honeysuckle Rose made its world premiere in Austin, Texas.

The film starred Nelson, 93, as Buck Bonham, a hard-touring country singer trying to balance life on the road with his responsibilities to his wife and son. As Bonham's career begins gaining national attention, temptation enters the picture when the daughter of his former guitarist joins the tour, forcing him to confront the cost of fame and the choices that come with it.

For fans, the role felt strikingly authentic.

While Honeysuckle Rose wasn't a biopic, the story echoed many aspects of Nelson's own life as a constantly touring musician, making his performance feel natural and believable. Critics praised the singer's easygoing screen presence, and audiences embraced seeing the country icon portray a character who seemed only a few steps removed from the man they already knew.

The movie also introduced what would become one of the defining songs of Nelson's career.

Written for the film, "On the Road Again" perfectly captured the spirit of a musician whose life revolved around touring. The song became an instant hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, earning Nelson a Grammy Award for Best Country Song and later becoming one of the most recognizable recordings in country music history.

Although Nelson had appeared in smaller acting roles before, Honeysuckle Rose marked the project that firmly established him as a legitimate Hollywood leading man.

The success of the film opened the door to a string of acting roles throughout the 1980s, including appearances in Barbarosa, Songwriter, Red Headed Stranger and, perhaps most famously, The Dukes of Hazzard and Stagecoach in later years.

More than four decades after its release, Honeysuckle Rose remains a favorite among Nelson's fans, not just because of its heartfelt story, but because it captured the easy charm, humor and authenticity that made him one of country music's most enduring stars.

For many fans, the film's greatest legacy may be the song it gave the world.

RELATED: 44 Years Ago, Willie Nelson Took a Song From a Future Christmas Queen to No. 1

Before he was able to add his real surname, Mellencamp, to his stage moniker, John Mellencamp was known as John Cougar — a name that appeared on his breakthrough album, American Fool, which included the Top 10 hit “Hurt So Good” and the Top 20 hit “Hand to Hold on To.”

But the only song from that album to go No. 1 was a “little diddy” known as “Jack & Diane.” The song soared to the top of the all-genre Billboard Hot 100 chart in the fall after its release, and stayed there for four weeks. 

Released on July 24, 1982, “Jack & Diane” remains a beloved fan-favorite today. But it may come as a surprise to some folks that Mellencamp wasn’t too fond of the song that lends itself as a perfect addition to playlists for long drives on the road.  

“I always detested that song until the last couple three years,” the Indiana-raised Mellencamp admitted during a Zoom conversation with Forbes in 2022. “I watched a football game this past weekend, and 80,000 people were singing that song at halftime. Can you imagine? I thought, ‘S**t.’ I said, ‘How do all these f**king people know this song?’"

Further fueling his dissatisfaction over the song, according to Ultimate Classic Rock, Mellencamp found the tune difficult to record.

“‘Jack & Diane’ was a terrible record to make,” Mellencamp once said, per the outlet. “When I play it on guitar by myself, it sounds great, but I could never get the band to play along with me. That’s why the arrangement’s so weird. Stopping and starting, it’s not very musical.” 

As the song’s sole writer, Mellencamp said he initially wrote “Jack & Diane” as a story touching on the complexities of interracial relationships he had noticed while touring, according to UCR. However, at the suggestion of his record label, he ultimately shifted his focus toward a teenage love story. 

In its finalization, the song went on to become a tune about teenage love in America’s heartland with Mellencamp drawing inspiration from his upbringing in Seymour, Ind. 

The lyrics depict the story of two high schoolers — a football star “Jack” and his love interest “Diane” — enjoying time together getting chili dogs, stopping at a Tastee-Freez, and namechecking James Dean. The hook focuses on living life to the fullest before moving on after “the thrill of livin’ is gone.”

While not necessarily his personal favorite song in his catalog, “Jack & Diane” stands as Mellencamp’s most successful hit, marking his only No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Related: 1989 Rock Classic, Originally Written as a Joke, Became a Timeless Road Trip Anthem, Despite Never Reaching No. 1

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It's the Fourth of July weekend, which means it's the perfect time to shop. The holiday has brought on a slew of amazing deals from top clothing brands, including unbeatable sales at Banana Republic. The retailer is selling the most perfect pieces for your summer wardrobe, with the High-Rise Linen-Blend Bermuda Shorts, which are nearly 63% off now, being the latest on our shopping list. 

The shorts originally cost $80, but have been reduced to just $30 during a limited-time deal. You will receive an extra 25% off to achieve that low price when you add the shorts to your online cart. The style is being sold in three classic colors: black, cream, and white. The beauty of these minimalist hues is that you can wear them with nearly anything (and if you purchase the black colorway, you can sport them past Labor Day!). 

High-Rise Linen-Blend Bermuda Short, $30 (was $80) at Banana Republic

Courtesy of Banana Republic

Shop at Banana Republic

The available sizes range from XXS to XXL, with nearly every color and size combination in stock (just note that the XXL is currently only available in the cream hue). Shopper reviews noted that the shorts are loose-fitting and run slightly large, so we recommend consulting the size guide for best results. The high-waisted design features 9-inch in seam with a baggy leg for an overall relaxed fit. 

High-Rise Linen-Blend Bermuda Short, $30 (was $80) at Banana Republic

Courtesy of Banana Republic

Shop at Banana Republic

The shorts have a traditional hook-and-bar closure with a zipper fly and belt loops so that you can make sure they're as securely fastened as possible. There's an elasticized back waistband for additional comfort and freedom of movement. The side pockets are perfect for your hands, phone, and other small miscellaneous items. The shorts serve a trouser look, without them actually being trousers. 

The material consists of 53% European linen, 23% cotton, 22% lyocell, and 2% elastane spandex, so they're machine washable according to the care instructions. Shoppers described the bottoms as "very versatile," "elegant," "flattering," "absolutely fantastic," "high-quality," and "beautiful." Plus, then "can be dressed up or down" so you can wear them anywhere throughout the warmer months. 

Shop More Deals

• Soft Stretch Polo, $12 (was $50) at Banana Republic
• Linen-Blend Dolman-Sleeve T-Shirt, $15 (was $40) at Banana Republic
• Hayden Tapered Pant, $25 (was $90) at Banana Republic 

Related: Banana Republic Has a 'Very Soft' Ribbed Turtleneck on Sale for $29 That’s 'Great for Layering'

A low price like this doesn't come around often. These classy linen-blend shorts are not only cute, but will also last you several more seasons. Shop them at Banana Republic for 63% off, before the sale ends! 

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.

Peter Hook is well-known for being a co-founder of both Joy Division and its successor group, New Order, two legendary post-punk bands who played a major part in music history. But Hook doesn't appear to have many good feelings left when it comes to his former New Order bandmates, Gillian Gilbert, Bernard Sumner, and Stephen Morris.

The talented bassist took a strong stance when he was asked about the possibility of ever reuniting with his former bandmates in a recent conversation with Mojo magazine. The question came up while talking about Joy Division and New Order's joint induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame coming up in November 2026.

"The answer is, no, I will never play with them again. I’d rather die than play with them three," Hook declared before opening up a bit about why he felt this way. "What they did to me and my family when they took the name, it was terrible."

He went on, "You have to have morals in this world, and if I let my morals slip, I don’t think people will think better of me... I lived a lie for so long to maintain the status quo… it saps your soul.”

As for his opinions on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame honor, Hook was much more excited. He said, "Is it deserved? Without a shadow of a doubt!... Joy Division has been the bedrock of everything we've ever done, and to rise phoenix-like from the ashes to what we achieved as New Order... those 10 years from 1980 to 1990 were absolutely golden."

"It's a hell of a discography, and I still have great belief in the music," he concluded.

Related: 48 Years Ago Today, One of Rock’s Most Influential Bands Made Their Live Debut

Despite the feud between Hook and his fellow New Order founding members, he will be in attendance at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony on Nov. 14. But as he has made clear, he will not be performing on stage with the others.

Hook played bass for New Order until 2007. The band had gone through several break-ups and reformations by then. In 2011, New Order reformed without Hook for the first time, in part leading to the feud and a long legal battle.

After New Order, Hook has had many different music projects, including Ad Infinitum, Revenge, and Peter Hook & the Light.

Related: ’80s Rock Icon Shares the 'Brutal Truth' About Aging Rock Legends Who Keep Taking the Stage

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Any plant parent quickly learns that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work for houseplants. Plants grow at different rates and develop different root sizes, meaning a single planter size won't suit your whole collection. Having a variety of pot sizes on hand eliminates the guesswork and emergency trips to the store, giving you the exact container you need for every stage of your plants' growth.

That's exactly why a multi-size planter set is such a smart buy. The Utopia Home Plastic Plant Pot Set offers excellent value, and right now it's on sale for 45% off at Amazon, dropping the price from $17 to just $10.

Utopia Home Plastic Plant Pot Set, From $10 (was $17) at Amazon

The Utopia Home Plastic Plant Pot Set, pictured here, is now on sale at Amazon.

Shop at Amazon

The set includes a range of sizes to accommodate different stages of plant growth. Pots range from 4 inches tall with a 4.8-inch top diameter to 5.9 inches tall with a 7.1-inch top diameter, giving you flexible options for everything from smaller starts to more established plants.

You can choose between packs of five or 10, depending on your needs. The pots are also available in 12 colors, including white, black, gray, green, and terracotta. The white option currently offers the biggest discount and blends easily into most decor styles.

Their minimalist design works well on windowsills, countertops, desks, shelves, and plant stands. The clean look helps highlight your plants without overwhelming your space, while the stackable design makes storage simple when not in use.

A standout feature is the drainage system. Each pot includes multiple drainage holes to help prevent excess moisture from building up around roots, while matching trays catch runoff to help protect floors, shelves, and tabletops.

The pots are made from reinforced PP plastic that's sturdy yet lightweight. They're also rust-resistant, rot-resistant, and easy to move around, making them ideal for rearranging plant displays or transporting plants when needed.

With nearly 1,500 five-star ratings, this pot set is incredibly popular. One shopper described the pots as “solid and sturdy,” writing, “Like many other people, I have houseplants that have required frequent repotting as they grow roots. These were perfect for accommodating the growth of my plants. My plants are so happy in these!”

Another said they’re “practical, well-made, and thoughtfully sized,” sharing, “I love that they’re all white, which makes them clean, simple, and easy to match with any décor. They look good everywhere (windowsills, shelves, plant stands) without competing with the plants themselves.”

Shop More Deals

• Areutxbis Wave Plant Pot Set, From $20 (was $24) at Amazon
• Meowell Self-Watering Indoor Plant Pot Set, $10 (was $15) at Amazon
• Goproauto Indoor Planter Pot Set, From $10 (was $13) at Amazon

Related: Drew Barrymore's $28 Sage Ceramic Planter Is the Most 'Beautiful' Way to Display Summer Plants

For a sleek, functional, and budget-friendly planter set, the Utopia Home Plastic Plant Pot Set is an easy choice. With Amazon's current 45% discount, now's a great time to pick up a set before the deal disappears.

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.

A California man has confessed to sending a bogus ransom demand connected to Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance.

Derrick Callella, 42, of Hawthorne, pleaded guilty Thursday, July 2, to two counts of harassment using a telecommunications device, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Arizona announced in the official press release. Prosecutors say Callella called and texted Guthrie's family on February 4, just days after the news of Nancy's disappearance was made public, asking about a bitcoin transfer.

According to KOLD, Callella texted Nancy's oldest daughter, Annie, and her son-in-law, Tommaso Cioni. Investigators said the texts landed just moments after the Guthrie family released their first video message pleading with the alleged kidnappers for proof of life. "Callella acknowledged that he knew an earlier ransom demand had been made," the U.S. Attorney's Office said in its release.  "Callella also admitted that his actions were meant to harass the family by seeking information about the investigation into the missing person's disappearance." 

According to NBC News, Court records show he used a VOIP, or internet-based, phone line to send the message: "Did you get the bitcoin were (sic) waiting on our end for the transaction."

Inside the Plea Deal: Derrick Callella's Sentencing and Penalties

Under the plea agreement, Callella is expected to receive two concurrent five-year probation terms when he's sentenced September 10.  He also faces a maximum possible penalty of two years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both, according to Reuters. The plea comes as investigators continue sorting fact from fiction in the broader case. 

Australian-born presenter, Savannah Guthrie poses for a photo before hosting NBC's "Today Show" live from Australia at Sydney Opera House on May 4, 2015 in Sydney, Australia.

Photo by Don Arnold/WireImage

Callella's sentencing comes just one day after the FBI's Phoenix office issued a new statement, saying the case has drawn "several ransom notes" throughout the investigation, calling some 'potentially legitimate'. 

The statement read: "Some have been deemed to be extortion attempts without legitimacy," the bureau said. "Other ransom demands may potentially be legitimate and are still being investigated as such."

Statement on Guthrie Investigation pic.twitter.com/zTUKcjPfsv

— FBI Phoenix (@FBIPhoenix) July 1, 2026

The FBI's update followed a June 30 Reuters report claiming that an FBI source had called the notes fake. The case remains open as a kidnapping-for-ransom investigation.

Nancy, the 84-year-old mother of Today co-host Savannah Guthrie, was reported missing on February 1 after vanishing from her Tucson-area home the night before. Despite multiple rounds of searches around her property and several rounds of DNA testing, no suspect has been publicly named, and no breakthrough has emerged.

Anyone with information related to Nancy Guthrie is asked to call Tucson’s 88-Crime hotline at 1-520-882-7463 or the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

When a rock song from the '70s kicks off with a cowbell, you know you're in for a good time. Case in point: Nazareth's 1975 classic, "Hair of the Dog." One of the Scottish band's biggest hits (along with "Love Hurts"), "Hair of the Dog" definitely made an impression on listeners, including many who would go on to become rockers themselves. The song made a huge resurgence during the hair metal era, when bands including Warrant, Britny Fox and Guns N' Roses covered the track (Axl Rose was such a huge fan of the band, he reportedly asked them to perform at his wedding). But none of those versions can hold a candle to the original...which, as it turns out, almost had a very different title.

As bassist Pete Agnew told Classic Rock in 2009, "Hair of the Dog" was originally supposed to be called "Son of a Bitch." This makes sense, of course, given the epic chorus ("Now you're messing with a son of a bitch!"). Alas, the powers-that-be decided that wasn't going to fly.

“The record company flipped when we told them our intended title,” Agnew recalled. “We argued that it was okay because John Wayne used the same phrase all the time, but they wouldn't buy it.”

First, "Son of a Bitch" evolved into "Heir of the Dog," which then became "Hair of the Dog" (inspired, of course, by the traditional hangover cure).

“It had absolutely no meaning at all!” Agnew admitted with a laugh. “And nothing to do with the content of the song!”

Indeed. "Hair of the Dog" isn't about how to rebound from a night of drinking. It's more about how to rebound from a toxic love affair:

Heartbreaker, soul shaker
I've been told about you
Steamroller, midnight shoulder
What they been sayin' must be true

Red hot mama, velvet charmer
Time's come to pay your dues

According to Agnew, the chorus came about as a sort of surprise from vocalist Dan McCafferty. The song was mostly composed in rehearsals, he explained.

“It was based on a riff that Manny [Charlton, guitarist] had been messing around with,”he said. “Everyone else joined in and mucked around with it, adding the stops and starts.”

When the time came to record the vocals, McCafferty simply smiled and told his bandmates he "had something up his sleeve."

“When we heard Dan singing the chorus we all thought: ‘This should do well,'" Agnew quipped, adding, "Such language is nothing to the stuff you hear on records these days, but back then it was considered outrageously risqué.”

Watal Asanuma/Shinko Music / Getty Images

Risqué or not, "Hair of the Dog" was, obviously, a big success: It peaked at #17 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a live concert highlight...although it did stir up some trouble in one country.

“We were playing two nights in Chile back when [military dictator] General Pinochet was still in power," Agnew said. "It was a televised thing that went out to about 100 million people. On the first night, we finished as usual to 'Hair of the Dog' and Dan got the audience to sing the chorus back at him. It created such a furor that it made the next day’s newspapers."

“Before the second show the Lady Mayoress came backstage with an entourage and gave us an attitude. Somebody translated what she had said and it was: ‘Tonight you will not finish with that song. Do you understand?’" he continued.

McCafferty's reaction was pure rock and roll rebellion.

“Dan kept nodding away and told her: ‘Aye, no problem.’ When she left the room I asked him: ‘What the hell are you talking about?'" Agnew remembered, adding, "And he replied: ‘We’re not gonna close the show with that song. We’re gonna open with it.’”

It's safe to say Guns N' Roses didn't have to deal with any of that by the time they covered "Hair of the Dog" almost two decades later. As for Agnew, he seemed less than impressed with the band's cover, released on The Spaghetti Incident? album.

“Their version was a bit of a copycat thing; they didn’t try to make it their own,” Agnew said. “We always try to add our own personality to our covers, but that was never the point with them — Axl had always wanted to sing 'Son Of A Bitch.' He wanted to sound like Dan.”

Well, you can't blame Axl for that.

Related: 1968 Party Anthem, Banned From High School Dances Across America, Topped the Charts Twice in 20 Years

Fresh off Supercharged, Dexter Holland returns with another blast of punk-fueled alt-rock. This time, The Offspring frontman has teamed with Billy Morrison on the fiery new single “Never Gonna Change,” out now as the latest preview of Morrison’s forthcoming solo album, Hollow.

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Hollow arrives Aug. 7. Previous singles Morrison has shared are “Becoming,” which features Godsmack’s Sully Erna and Extreme’s Nuno Bettencourt, as well as the title track. According to Consequence, Chuck D., B Real, Duff McKagan, and more feature on the project.

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Written by Morrison and Jacob Dunton, “‘Never Gonna Change’ is one of those perfect pop punk slices of rebellion that hopefully spans a couple of generational gaps,” Morrison said, via the outlet. “Teenagers will always feel the same—misunderstood—and Dexter has been one of the most vital voices of teenage angst and rebellion since The Offspring hit the world running in 1984.”

“Billy Morrison has a great track record and is a good guy, so when he sent me ‘Never Gonna Change’ for a collab, it was an immediate ‘I’m in,’” Holland added. “The song is just the right amount of angst, rebellion, and fun. A summer banger if you ask me.”

An animated lyric video was released to go with the single (see below).

Morrison began his career in the U.K.'s alternative rock scene, playing with bands including Into a Circle before fronting Stimulator in the mid-1990s. In 2001, he joined The Cult as the band's touring bassist, performing for more than a year before relocating to Los Angeles. Since 2010, Morrison has served as a rhythm guitarist in Billy Idol's touring band alongside Steve Stevens, while also co-writing much of Idol's recent music.

As for Holland, he co-founded his first punk band, Manic Subsidal, in California in 1984. The band became The Offspring a year later, with mainstream success following their landmark album, Smash, in 1994.

More than four decades later, Holland continues to front the band, with The Offspring still touring and releasing new music today.

Related: 1996 Film That Inspired One of Alternative Rock’s Most Haunting Ballads Became a Cult Classic

It is rare that a novel leaves as profound an emotional impact on readers as A Thousand Splendid Suns.

Since its publication in 2007, Khaled Hosseini's sweeping story of friendship, resilience and survival has become one of the defining works of contemporary fiction. Its enduring popularity has now been reflected once again with a place on Goodreads' "Best Books Ever" list, a ranking determined by votes from the site's global reading community.

The novel marked a second major milestone for Hosseini.

Already an international literary sensation following the success of The Kite Runner, the Afghan American author turned his attention to the lives of women in Afghanistan across several turbulent decades. Through the intertwined stories of Mariam and Laila, Hosseini explored love, sacrifice, family and hope against the backdrop of war, political upheaval and profound social change.

"Writing a second novel is much more difficult," Hosseini told the San Francisco Examiner. "I had chosen a storyline that was much more complex. The story spanned 30 years and it was a woman's story so I had to be very careful to make sure that I had the correct characterizations."

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Readers responded immediately.

A Thousand Splendid Suns became an international bestseller upon its release, spending weeks on bestseller lists while earning widespread praise for its emotional depth and richly drawn characters.

"I think the two main female characters in A Thousand Splendid Suns were kind of inspired by my collective sense of what women in Afghanistan went through, particularly since the withdrawal of the Soviets and the breakout of anarchy and extremism and criminality," Hosseini told TIME in 2008.

Critics and readers alike applauded Hosseini's ability to combine intimate personal stories with sweeping historical events, creating a novel that felt both deeply personal and universally relatable.

Its influence has only grown over time.

The book has become a staple of book clubs, including Dua Lipa's Service95 book club, classrooms and community reading programs around the world, introducing millions of readers to Afghan history and culture through an unforgettable human story. It has also inspired a stage adaptation, bringing Mariam and Laila's journey to audiences beyond the page while continuing to spark conversations about resilience, compassion and the strength of human connection.

The continued success of A Thousand Splendid Suns has further cemented Hosseini’s reputation as one of the most widely read authors of the 21st century. Alongside The Kite Runner and And the Mountains Echoed, the novel remains one of the cornerstones of his remarkable literary career.

"I feel that my books talk about issues that shape people's lives, that shape society and that are important," Hosseini told TIME. "I see it as my duty to parlay my own personal success and blessings [into benefits for] Afghanistan and to try to hopefully make a meaningful impact there."

Its inclusion among Goodreads' "Best Books Ever" reflects the lasting bond readers have formed with the novel. Nearly 20 years after its publication, A Thousand Splendid Suns continues to move new generations with its unforgettable portrait of courage, friendship and enduring hope, securing its place as one of the most beloved modern novels of all time.

Related: Best-Selling Author’s Classic Novel Ranked Among ‘Most Read Books’ in United States on Goodreads

Singer-songwriters are often asked to write music for a movie. But it's rare to hear that the music is released without the movie ever being made. Neil Young revealed which 1970 song was inspired by a movie we may never see.

What Inspired Neil Young's 'After the Gold Rush'?

"After the Gold Rush" lyrics paint a picture of a medieval world full of nature. "Well I dreamed I saw the knights in armor/comin'/Sayin' something about a queen/There were peasants singin' and drummers/drummin'" it starts.

The verse ends bringing the scene back to the current day. "Look at Mother Nature on the run/In the 1970s/Look at Mother Nature on the run/In the 1970s," Young sings.

Actor Dean Stockwell is no stranger to time travel and sci-fimovies. TheQuantum Leap actor wrote a script called After The Gold Rush in hopes that Dennis Hopper would help get it produced.

"In Peru, Dennis very strongly urged me to write a screenplay, and he would get it produced," Stockwell, 85, said, according to Louder Sound. "I came back home to Topanga Canyon [in the mountains outside LA href="https://parade.com/1327266/michelleparkerton/mountain-quotes/"] and wrote After The Gold Rush. Neil was living in Topanga then too, and a copy of it somehow got to him."

The Dune actor claimed that Young had writer's block, but the screenplay inspired him to write the album for the movie in three weeks. The disaster movie focuses on California going into the ocean after the gold rush.

Related: Why Joni Mitchell Wrote ‘The Circle Game’ for Neil Young

The Song Was Used in Another Movie

A 2001 movie used the song instead of its intended purpose. Hal (Jack Black) keeps pursuing women based on their looks. A man gives him the ability to see women for their inner beauty instead of their looks. He then falls for Rosemary, who looks like Gwyneth Paltrow to him, but is very different to everyone else in Shallow Hal.

Young was nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song for "Philadelphia" in Philadelphia. Andrew Beckett (Tom Hanks) asks a small-time lawyer named Joe Miller (Denzel Washington) to handle his wrongful dismissal case after Andrew's law firm fired him for having HIV.

The movie made history for being one of the first to address homophobia and discrimination to people who are HIV positive. Director Jonathan Demme said it was his idea to have Young involved with the movie.

"We're cutting the movie together and I'm like, [snaps his fingers], I've got such a great idea," he said, according to CBC. "We're going to reach out to Neil Young to see if he would like to do a 'Southern Man'-type anthem to start this movie, 'cause that will send such a strong, reassuring message to testosterone-fuelled men, which is our target audience. It's like, 'Well if Neil's down with it,' you know?"

The song lost to Bruce Springsteen's "Streets of Philadelphia" for the same movie. Young's music has an interesting history with unreleased and released movies.

Related: How Neil Young and Funk Legend Crossed Paths Before Solo Fame

Before Katherine Heigl, there was Anne Hathaway booked as the "knocked up" lead opposite Seth Rogen back in the 2000s.

Judd Apatow's acclaimed rom-com features a rather graphic sequence once it's time for the main characters of Knocked Up (2008) to welcome their baby girl. And Rogen, 44, just indicated that said sequence might have been what steered the Devil Wears Prada star, 43, away from sticking with the role ultimately.

"It could have been a hundred million things. That was what I remember being told," Rogen tells Olivia Wilde in a new episode of The A24 Podcast — given that Wilde, 42, had auditioned for the part that ultimately went to Heigl, 47. "Crowning is a tough one. [Hathaway] didn’t want the crowning of the baby to be visually representative. Even though it wasn’t going to be hers..."

Rogen continues, per Variety Australia, "It’s obviously not real. But she didn’t even want…she felt that it was not her brand. Part of me also… we had started rehearsing the movie… maybe she was just like, ‘I don’t know if this is for me.’ I don’t know. I will take what she said at face value, which was the crowning.”

A24 paired up Wilde with Rogen for its latest podcast episode they star together in The Invite, which the company distributes. Fans of The Studio might recall that the Don't Worry Darling helmer also guest-starred in a standout episode of the Apple TV series, which was co-created by Rogen and will return for a second season.

Per A24, other topics covered in the episode include:​

• saying bad things about famous people
• first meeting at Wilde's table read for Knocked Up
• G-rated bisexuality on The O.C.
• the craziest audition of Rogen's life
• constantly being mistaken for a courier, anti-gravity
• The Invite’s origins as a play

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With longer days and cheerful sunny weather, summer is the perfect season for outdoor gatherings. From weekend brunches to sunset book clubs, all these events could use some provisions and refreshments. If you’re looking for an elegant way to serve drinks to your guests, you can’t go wrong with a cohesive glassware set, like this 4-Piece Lilypad Coupe Glasses Set at Anthropologie.

There’s no better time to snag this chic glassware set because it’s currently on sale for an extra 50% off during Anthropologie's Summer Sale event. Normally retailing for $80, this set is now on sale for just $33 for a limited time. You can snag it in either a clear white version or a transparent yellow style. 

4-Piece Lilypad Coupe Glasses Set, $33 (was $80) at Anthropologie

Courtesy of Anthropologie

Shop at Anthropologie

Handcrafted with a nature-inspired design, these coupe glasses ooze with cottagecore charm. Capturing the whimsical essence of the aesthetic, the foot of the glass features a lilypad silhouette in a rich green hue with two curved indents that give it that signature look. The foot effortlessly transitions into the stem with the same green hue. 

Adding a charming summer-ready vibe, the bowl boasts a floral silhouette that slightly flares out. The rim is wavy with soft curves, creating a ruffled look that feels sweet and playful. Whether you’re hosting a garden party, an al fresco dinner, or anything in between, these glasses will make all your gatherings feel elevated with a touch of whimsy. Shoppers absolutely adored the style of these glasses, describing them as “adorable, cute, and so whimsical.” 

These coupe glasses are made of borosilicate glass, giving them a delicate appearance with great clarity. However, they’re more durable than they look. The glass has great thermal shock resistance, meaning that it can withstand quick temperature changes. If you rinse them under hot water or chill them in the freezer, they’re less likely to crack or shatter than regular glass. While they’re sturdy and durable, you should handwash them to ensure that they remain in pristine condition for long-term use. 

4-Piece Lilypad Coupe Glasses Set, $33 (was $80) at Anthropologie

Courtesy of Anthropologie

Shop at Anthropologie

Borosilicate glass is also lightweight, allowing you to pick these glasses up and drink from them with ease. The long stem makes these glasses ideal for summer hosting. It’ll prevent your hands from touching the bowl and transferring body heat, keeping your drinks chilled for a longer period of time. 

Measuring 6 inches tall with a 4.3-inch diameter, these glasses have a wide bowl that can hold around 7.6 ounces. They’re ideal for wine and cocktails, including martinis, daiquiris, and Manhattans. You can also get creative with these glasses and use them as a stylish vessel for appetizers and desserts, like shrimp cocktail, sorbet, and even individual servings of cake. 

Shop More Deals

• Sports Icon Juice Glass, $7 (was $16) at Anthropologie
• Poolside Juice Glass, $7 (was $16) at Anthropologie
• Esther 4-Piece Acrylic Wine Glass Set, $15 (was $48) at Anthropologie

Related: Walmart’s 'Super Cold' $190 Portable Air Conditioner Triples as a Fan and Dehumidifier, and It's 47% Off Right Now

Add some cottagecore charm to every summer gathering with the 4-Piece Lilypad Coupe Glasses Set. Be sure to grab it at Anthropologie while it’s still on sale for just $33 during its Summer Sale event! 

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Fans of beloved singer and talk show host Kelly Clarkson just got some amazing news. The 44-year-old surprised fans by revealing that she has a brand-new song on the way, the first in over a year.

She cheekily wrote on Instagram, "New Single? 👀 #IdBeLyin," alongside a photo of herself that looked to be the cover art for the track. She also gave fans a specific date to look forward to, adding, "Pre-save link in bio! #July17."

Clarkson didn't add any further information about the new music, such as whether fans can expect more songs or an album in the near future.

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Fans were instantly hyped up about the big news, commenting in excitement on Clarkson's post. "MOTHER IS BACK," declared one such fan, as more replied, "YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSS IM SO EXCITED," and "THE DROUGHT IS OVER."

Even the official account for Wayfair chimed in, writing, "July 17th is officially a national holiday." Other responses included, "Slap me!?!?! Is this real? Yay!!!," "Coming to save 2026," and "Yasssssss I’m always ready for new music from my girl!"

Quite a few people took the title to use in their comments, like, "I’d be lyin’ if I said I didn’t just jump out of my seat," and "I’d be lyin’ if I said I wasn’t obsessed with this song already."

Related: Kelly Clarkson Fans Can’t Believe Her "Crazy" Vocals in Duet With Hit Boy Band

There was also a lot of discussion about what specific genre the song might be and whether an album and tour would follow. Some lucky fans got to hear the song early at the taping for a The Kelly Clarkson Show episode and praised the tune.

The song "I'd Be Lyin'" is set to be released on the first day of her upcoming Las Vegas residency, which includes 10 shows between July 17 and Aug. 15. Fans attending the residency can likely expect to see Clarkson perform the song there.

Related: One of the 'Best Country Love Song Duets' Gets 'Incredibly Sad' Reimagining by Kelly Clarkson

Nearly 30 years after forming in South Florida, Nonpoint has announced its 11th studio album, The Last Word. The hard rock and alternative metal band confirmed that the record will arrive on Sept. 18, 2026, through its own label, 361 Degrees Records.

The announcement came on Instagram, where the band also revealed that fans can now pre-save the album and order limited-edition supporter bundles.

The album marks Nonpoint's first full-length release since 2018's X. Since then, the band has released the Ruthless and Heartless EPs while continuing to tour and release new music independently through 361 Degrees Records.

At the same time as the album announcement, Nonpoint released the official music video for the lead single, "Is It." The song first arrived digitally in April and has already gained momentum at Active Rock radio. According to the band, the track became the No. 1 most-added song upon release before climbing into the Top 50 of the Mediabase Active Rock chart.

Rock band Nonpoint poses at the Lincoln Theater for the East Coast Premiere of Miami Vice on July 25, 2006 in Miami Beach, Florida.

Photo by Alexander Tamargo/Getty Images

Frontman Elias Soriano said the album title reflects the band's determination to keep moving forward instead of slowing down after decades in music, per Lambgoat.

"In a world that sometimes wants to put a timestamp on creativity, 'The Last Word' is our way of saying we're just getting started. We're pushing back against expectation and pushing forward into our own next chapter,” Soriano said.

“This album cover tells a piece of our story. After years of making music, we feel more aligned than ever, musically, visually, and creatively. We're writing some of the strongest material of our career, our live shows are as powerful as they've ever been, and the band feels focused and energized,” he added.

Earlier this year, Soriano described the upcoming album as heavier than previous releases while introducing new textures and songwriting ideas. He also said the record would stay true to the band's signature sound while exploring fresh musical elements.

Nonpoint was formed in 1997 by vocalist Elias Soriano and drummer Robb Rivera. Since then, the band has built a career around heavy riffs, energetic live shows and songs including "Bullet With a Name," "What a Day," "Breaking Skin" and "Generation Idiot."

Over the years, Nonpoint has released ten studio albums, beginning with Statement in 2000 and most recently X in 2018. In 2021, the group launched its own independent label, 361 Degrees Records, opening a new chapter in its career.

The Last Word will become the band's 11th studio album and includes ten tracks:

1. “Failing The Conversation”
2. “Is It”
3. “Crowd Control”
4. “The Last Word”
5. “Shoreline”
6. “Dial Tones”
7. “Off The Hook”
8. “Red Yeti”
9. “Fine Print”
10. “Settled”

To support the new release, Nonpoint will begin The Even More Outta Control Tour on July 23 in Menahga, Minnesota. The U.S. run continues through early September, giving fans a chance to hear new music before the album arrives. Several dates will feature support from Spineshank, (hed)p.e., Soil and other special guests.

The announcement follows a busy year for the veteran band. Earlier in 2026, Nonpoint reunited onstage with former bassist Ken MacMillan during a performance of "Bullet With a Name" at Welcome to Rockville, marking his first appearance with the group in more than 15 years.

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Nearly three decades after forming, Nonpoint is preparing to release another full-length album while continuing to tour across the U.S.

Related: ’70s Rock Band Announces New Dates for 2027 Tour

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Who says you need a wedding or anniversary to pop a bottle of bubbly? That unmistakable pop of a cork immediately makes any moment feel a little more festive. A backyard barbecue feels like a bigger celebration, and a quiet evening on the patio feels a bit more special with a glass of sparkling wine in hand. Sometimes, the best reason to celebrate is simply because you can.

This year, though, there's an extra excuse to raise a glass. As America marks its 250th birthday, Fourth of July feels like the perfect time to toast with something made right here at home. While Champagne may get most of the attention, California has spent decades producing world-class sparkling wines that can easily hold their own.

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If you're planning a Fourth of July gathering—or just looking for a delicious way to commemorate America's milestone birthday—there are two California sparkling wines that absolutely deserve a spot on your table.

Korbel Brut, $11.19 at Total Wine Korbel California Bruit

Total Wine

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First up is Korbel Brut, which even has a limited-edition 750 ml bottle to celebrate the 250th. Total Wine carries it for just $11.19, which is kind of a steal.

It's a blend of Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, French Colombard and Pinot Noir grapes, making it approachable, bright and fruit-forward. And if you're considering how well it will play with your Fourth of July spread, it goes with everything from cheese boards and seafood to fried appetizers and barbecue.

Related: Aldi’s Beautiful Blue 5-Piece Cookware Set Has a Genius Space-Saving Feature for Small Kitchens

Gloria Ferrer Brut, $17.99 at Total Wine Gloria Ferrer Brut

Total Wine

Next up, you have another bubbly out of California's Sonoma County—Gloria Ferrer Brut, which retails for $17.99 at Total Wine. Incidentally, the brand is celebrating its own 40th birthday this year and boasts a wide range of sparkling wines, from this super accessible brut to bottles that cost upward of $150.

The Gloria Ferrer Brut is 88 percent Pinot Noir and 12 percent Chardonnay, which means it leans very rich and elegant, offering creamy bubbles, vibrant red berry flavors and just enough citrusy brightness to keep every sip crisp and balanced. The Pinot Noir gives it depth and body, while the Chardonnay adds freshness. It tastes more like what you might consider a traditional French Champagne than a lot of other sparkling wines made in the United States.

What Does Brut Mean in Sparkling Wine Terms, Anyway?

Simply put, a brut sparkling wine is dry, but not bone dry. It contains a small amount of added sugar (called dosage) after fermentation—just enough to balance the wine's natural acidity. Fermentation is the process that turns grape juice into wine. Not to get too scientific here, but essentially yeast eats the natural sugars in grape juice and converts them into alcohol and carbon dioxide. That small amount of sugar afterward creates a crisp, refreshing style that ultimately makes brut the most popular category of sparkling wine.

So, this Fourth of July, raise a glass with one of these California-made brut options. They're bound to be crowd-pleasers at any party.

Related: IKEA Is Selling Pretty Cordless Tabletop Lights That Offer an Ambient Glow With Retro Style

Former High School Musical star Ashley Tisdale is celebrating her 41st birthday with some exciting news. The actress’s “toxic mom group” essay published in The Cut almost instantly went viral. Not only did it resonate with parents, but speculation about the identities of the other mothers grew to a frenzy. 

After fans assumed (based on pics posted on social media) that fellow celebs Mandy Moore, Hilary Duff, and Meghan Trainor were the subjects of her expose, Tisdale’s rep toldTMZ that her words were meant to spotlight an experience, not a specific group of famous faces. 

A month before publishing The Cut article, Tisdale wrote ‘You’re Allowed To Leave Your Mom Group,’ a post on her By Ashley French website. Like the other essay, this one also deals with her own experiences dealing with her peers: “But here’s the thing nobody prepared me for: Mom groups can turn toxic. Not because the moms themselves are toxic people, but because the dynamic shifts into an ugly place with mean-girl behavior.”

In February, Hilary Duff opened up toAlex Cooperon the ‘Call Her Daddy’ podcast, sharing her thoughts on Tisdale’s essay: “I felt really sad. I honestly felt really sad.” She continued, “I was pretty, pretty taken aback.” Duff added, “I think I was just like, whoa, it sucks to read something that’s like not true. And it sucks on behalf of six women and all of their lives.”

Duff’s husband, Matthew Koma, fueled the fire, posting a photoshopped pic on his Instagram Stories of his head on Tisdale’s body with The Cut’s logo and the faux headline, “When You’re The Most Self Obsessed Tone Deaf Person On Earth, Other Moms Tend To Shift Focus To Their Actual Toddlers” and the subhead, “A Mom Group Tell All Through A Father’s Eyes.” 

Now the mom of two (she shares daughters Jupiter and Emerson with husband Christopher French) is working on a new project for Netflix based on her essays, aptly titled Toxic Moms. According to Deadline, Tisdale is collaborating with Sabrina Jalees andAli Wongon the half-hour comedy series. 

While the show will reportedly follow a sleep-deprived new mom who becomes part of a competitive clique of ‘cool’ mothers, it also digs into darker themes, such as isolation. 

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Tisdale recently posted a photo of Deadline’s story on Instagram with the caption, “I guess we can all be a little toxic.” Fans and friends flocked to her post, applauding the actress and her big news, “Wow! That’s amazing, Ashley. Your mum was right when she said life gives you lemons, you just work it out.” Other commenters praised the birthday girl, writing, “Iconic mother”, “Don’t mess with Sharpay Evans, y’all bunch of Gabriellas,” and “It’s your birthday, but we got the gift.” 

From the Eagles to Fleetwood Mac to the Beatles and so many more, it's no secret that the members of rock bands often disagree. Sometimes bands end up breaking up over these differences; other times, they're able to come to a compromise. A perfect example? The story behind one of Uriah Heep's most beloved songs ever, "Lady in Black."

The fourth track on Uriah Heep's 1971 album Salisbury, "Lady in Black" was never released as a single in the U.S., but fans fell in love with the ballad just the same, and it ended up becoming one of their most popular live tunes. As guitar player Ken Hensley explained in a 2018 interview with Songfacts, it all started with a supernatural encounter.

"All my songs start with the lyric which, when completed, begin to 'speak' to me in terms of melody and rhythm," Hensley said, adding, "This is partly because I started writing poetry when I was very young and had not yet learned to play an instrument and, much later, because Heep used to tour so much I had to write 'on the run' and finish a song whenever I could get to an instrument!"

In the case of "The Lady in Black," Hensley was inspired by a ghostly vision of an actual woman in black.

"t's true, I did see this young lady and she was dressed in black and her hair was blowing around in the 'mid-winter wind,' but she wasn't 'coming to me,' she was just walking up the street outside of my hotel in northwest England during a tour," he said.

"I just picked up my guitar and let my over-active imagination run with this vision and, as is often the case, let the lyric go wherever it wanted to go."

Usually, Uriah Heep's songs were sung by David Byron. But according to Hensley, Byron disliked the song so much that he refused to sing on it. So, at the suggestion of producer Gerry Bron, Hensley sang it himself, to great theatrical effect:

She came to me one morning, one lonely Sunday morning
Her long hair flowing in the mid-winter wind
I know not how she found me, for in darkness I was walking
And destruction lay around me, from a fight I could not win

She asked me, 'Name my foe then'
I said, 'The need within some men
To fight and kill their brothers
Without thought of love or God'
And I begged, 'Give me horses to trample down my enemies'
So eager was my passion to devour this waste of life

All these years later, fans are still connecting with this musical tale of a soldier in search of redemption, as the comments on the above YouTube video prove (for example: "Ken Hensley is the best!!! Uriah Heep forever!!!" "Timeless song, and lifts me when I'm down!").

In the same Songfacts interview, Hensley addressed the inspiration behind another seemingly supernatural Uriah Heep song, "The Wizard." Fans wondered for years about whether the sorcerer of the title was Gandalf, or Merlin, or perhaps someone else entirely, but as it turns out, none of those guesses were true.

"Actually, this song came from a dream that I had persistently over a week and, when I decided to write it, I just followed what I had seen in the dream, along with a little amateur philosophy," Hensley explained.

One thing's for sure: Byron must have liked "The Wizard" better than "Lady in Black," because he agreed to sing lead on the former.

Related: '70s Rock Icon to Miss First Shows in 57 Years on 2026 Farewell Tour Amid Health Struggles