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Quote of the Day: Philosopher Judith Butler on the Transformative Power of Reading
Judith Butler, born on Feb. 24, 1956, is an American feminist, queer philosopher and gender studies scholar known for their many books, as well as their feminist and queer theories. Even if you’re not well-read on those topics, odds are you’re still familiar with things inspired by their work, which has impacted philosophy, ethics, cultural theory, queer theory, political philosophy and more, per Britannica. And even if you don’t think that their work or words could be relevant to you, our quote of the day by Butler might. It’s not just a nice sentiment, but it’s a valuable opinion many have about reading.
Butler studied at Bennington College, then went on to receive a B.A., M.A. and Ph.D. from Yale University. They’re best known for their 1990 book Gender Trouble: Feminism and the Subversion of Identity and its sequel, 1993’s Bodies That Matter: On the Discursive Limits of ‘Sex.’ In these books, Butler focuses a lot on the concept that gender is a social construct and introduces their theory of gender performativity, which has had a massive influence on queer theory and the LGBTQ+ community as a whole.
According to Britannica, Butler’s Gender Trouble was “one of the founding texts of queer theory,” and all of their work continues to further influence cultural theory. They’re currently Distinguished Professor in the Graduate School at UC Berkeley, in the Department of Comparative Literature.
As an academic, philosopher and scholar, Butler has so many good words of wisdom, spanning across many topics. And today’s quote is, again, about the transformative power of reading.
Related: Quote of the Day: Eleanor Roosevelt on Working Toward Peace
Quote of the Day by Judith ButlerCanvaPro/Parade
“We lose ourselves in what we read, only to return to ourselves, transformed and part of a more expansive world.”
Butler said this in their Honorary Doctorate Address at McGill University in 2013, where they received the Doctor of Letters, honoris causa, per the McGill Reporter. Their speech was titled, “What value do the humanities have?” according to Speakola.
The full quote is: “Ideally, we lose ourselves in what we read only to return to ourselves transformed, and part of a more expansive world. In short, we become more critical and more capacious in our thinking and in our acting.”
Before they shared this sentiment, Butler spoke about the humanities, which are degrees that study human society and culture and include disciplines such as philosophy, religion, history, language arts and more. Butler commiserated with the students about what they might be thinking as they graduated, wondering how their humanities degrees could help them in their careers. The philosopher then shared that they are all "very lucky" to have taken courses that showed them appreciation for other cultures, ancient writings, other perspectives and more.
“How else can we imagine living together without this ability to see beyond where we are, to find ourselves linked with others we have never directly known, and to understand that, in some abiding and urgent sense, we share a world?” they said to the crowd.
Related: Quote of the Day: Psychologist Carl Jung on Self-Awareness and Understanding Others
Deeper Meaning of Judith Butler’s Quote—the Transformative Power of ReadingIn the context of Butler saying this to a group of graduating humanities students, they’re saying that these students are better off and have a richer view of culture and the world around them because of what they read in their classes. All that those graduates have read and studied allows them to better enrich their lives within their current culture and the modern world.
“I am made hopeful by the fact that you had this quite marvelous chance to take this time to learn, to question and to discover, and that you could actually take the time to consider this world in which you live, and for which you now assume a rather awesome and exciting responsibility,” Butler went on to say.
Their responsibility, as Butler explained, was to go on and make the world a better place, living among those different from them, to “live our passions without causing harm to others, and to know the difference between raw prejudice and distortion, and sound critical judgment.”
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However, even without the context of Butler's quote, the sentiment still holds up strong. We’ve all had those moments where we get lost in a good book, some of us even getting swept up in nonfiction or academic reading. At face value, without the humanities context, Butler is saying that reading can expand our world and transform us in doing so.
Reading is something that can take us to faraway lands, immerse us in fantasy and teach us many things about those who are different than us. How can we not transform from something so powerful?
Related: Quote of the Day: Brené Brown on Being Vulnerable in Life
More Quotes from Judith Butler- “Love is not a state, a feeling, a disposition, but an exchange, uneven, fraught with history, with ghosts, with longings that are more or less legible to those who try to see one another with their own faulty vision.”
- “Possibility is not a luxury; it is as crucial as bread.” ― Judith Butler, Undoing Gender
- “To operate within the matrix of power is not the same as to replicate uncritically relations of domination.” ― Judith Butler, Gender Trouble: Feminism and the Subversion of Identity
- “Let's face it. We're undone by each other. And if we're not, we're missing something.”
- “...laughter emerges in the realization that all along the original was derived.” ― Judith Butler, Gender Trouble: Feminism and the Subversion of Identity
- “What is most important is to cease legislating for all lives what is liveable only for some, and similarly, to refrain from proscribing for all lives what is unlivable for some.” ― Judith Butler, Undoing Gender
- “If the category of ‘woman’ is the subject of feminism, and the inquiry into its meaning is taken as the very task of feminism, then that category ought not to be presumed in advance of the analysis.” — Gender Trouble
Up Next:
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Tiger Woods Gets a Call From Trump on 'SNL' — See Who Else Gets Parodied
Saturday Night Live fans weren't surprised to see the latest episode open with the U.S. president once again.
This time, the parodied version of Donald Trump — portrayed by James Austin Johnson — addresses politics in the SNL cold open, of course, given the real-life situation happening overseas. But the head of state then proceeds to grab the phone and dial up an old pal of his, which also might not have been a shock: Tiger Woods.
"Tiger! It’s Donald! What’s going on?" Austin's Trump says to Woods, portrayed by Kenan Thompson. "Are you playing in the Masters this weekend?"
"No, sir. I don’t know if you remember but I flipped my car and got a DUI," Woods says, to which Trump hilariously replies, "Oh right, a 'dewy.' As in, 'Do he drive on pills?' Yes he do."
And as Thompson's Woods explains that he can't play golf because he's at a rehab facility in Switzerland, Trump is already hanging up the phone to call Melania Trump, played by Chloe Fineman — who pokes fun at the first lady's unexpected speech recently where she announced she wasn't associated with Jeffrey Epstein.
“Listen, I decided I should do a big, random speech, completely out of nowhere, and say I am not Epstein victim," Fineman's Melenia tells Donald in the bit. "Is that good?"
Check out the latest SNL cold open below.
Trump makes some urgent phone calls from the Oval Office pic.twitter.com/UtBjQYrxyo
— Saturday Night Live (@nbcsnl) April 12, 2026In other Woods news, his girlfriendVanessa Trump seems to be supporting the golf icon of late. On April 3, the 48-year-old took to her Instagram Stories with a sweet photo of the two of them, complete with the caption, “Love you.” The photo, which showed the two cuddling on a hammock, was one of the same images that Woods used to make the couple Instagram official in March of last year.
2005 Film Based on a Classic Book Is One of the 'Most Rewatched' Romance Movies Ever
The 2005 film adaptation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice has certainly kept with tradition in being a timeless classic that fans continue to love.
Just like Austen's enduring 19th century novel, the film version of Pride and Prejudice directed by Joe Wright continues to stand the test of time. It's even rated among the most rewatched romance films on Letterboxd, scoring a place at #3 on the movie-rating platform's list of Most Obsessively Rewatched Love Stories.
Pride and Prejudice has been adapted into a number of film and television series, but it's the 2005 iteration starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyenthat apparently has fans continuing to press play over and over again.
View this post on InstagramIn addition to Knightley and Macfadyen's role as the famous literary characters Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, Wright's film also features an all-star cast to round out the rest of the novel's lively characters, including Carey Mulligan as Elizabeth's sister Kitty Bennet, along with their other three Bennet sisters, played by Rosamund Pike (Jane), Jena Malone (Lydia) and Talulah Riley (Mary).
Simon Woods also appears in the film as Charles Bingley, with Rupert Friend as George Wickham and Tom Hollander as Mr. William Collins. The cast also includes Hollywood legends like Donald Sutherland (who plays Mr. Bennet) and Judi Dench (Lady Catherine), as well as Brenda Blethyn as Mrs. Bennet and Kelly Reilly as Caroline Bingley.
The film was nominated for four awards at the 2005 Oscars, including a Best Actress nomination for Knightley, as well as nods in the categories for art direction, costume design and original score.
Pride and Prejudice (2005) is featured in the #3 spot on Letterboxd's list of the Most Obsessively Rewatched Love Stories, which was last updated in 2023. The list also features Call Me By Your Name (2017) at #2 and La La Land (2016) at #1.
Related: This 'Below Average' Film Is Still Ranked as a Fan-Favorite Movie
NYT Connections Sports Edition Today: Hints and Answers for Sunday, April 12, 2026
Get excited—there's another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.
So, if you're looking for some hints and answers for today's Connections Sports Edition on Sunday, April 12, 2026, you've come to the right place.
Connections Sports Edition is just like the regular Connections word puzzle, in that it's a game that resets at 12 a.m. EST each day and has 16 different words listed. It's up to you to figure out each group of four words that belong to a certain category, with four categories in total.
This new version is sports-specific, however, as a partnership between The New York Times and The Athletic.
As the NYT site instructs, for Connections Sports Edition, you "group sports terms that share a common thread."
Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle
Hints for Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories on April 12, 2026Here are some hints about the four categories to help you figure out the word groupings.
- Yellow: Put 'em together for...
- Green: College towns.
- Blue: Fire it in there!
- Purple: Not leg.
OK, time for a second hint…we'll give you the actual categories now. Spoilers below!
- Yellow: EXPRESSION OF APPROVAL
- Green: SEC CITIES
- Blue: HALL OF FAME PITCHERS
- Purple: ____ ARM
If you're looking for the answers, no worries—we've got them below. So, don't scroll any further if you don't want to see the solutions!
The answers to today's Connections Sports Edition #566 are coming up next.
Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day
- EXPRESSION OF APPROVAL: APPLAUSE, CLAPPING, HAND, OVATION
- SEC CITIES: AUBURN, AUSTIN, COLLEGE STATION, OXFORD
- HALL OF FAME PITCHERS: FELLER, FINGERS, GROVE, PLANK
- ____ ARM: DEAD, FORE, SIDE, STIFF
Don't worry if you didn't get them this time—we've all been there.
Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Sunday, April 12, 2026
Move over, Wordle, Connections, Connections Sports Edition, and Mini Crossword—there’s a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times' recent game, "Strands," is becoming increasingly popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.
With daily themes and "spangrams" to discover, this is the latest addictive game to cross off your to-do list before a new one pops up 24 hours later.
We'll cover exactly how to play Strands, hints for today's Spangram, and all of the answers for Strands #770 on Sunday, April 12.
How to Play StrandsThe New York Times
According to the New York Times, here's exactly how to play Strands:
Find theme words to fill the board.
- Theme words stay highlighted in blue when found.
- Drag or tap letters to create words. If tapping, double-tap the last letter to submit.
- Theme words fill the board entirely. No theme words overlap.
Find the “spangram.”
- The spangram describes the puzzle's theme and touches two opposite sides of the board. It may be two words.
- The spangram highlights in yellow when found.
- An example spangram with corresponding theme words: PEAR, FRUIT, BANANA, APPLE, etc.
Need a hint?
- Find non-theme words to get hints.
- For every three non-theme words you find, you earn a hint.
- Hints show the letters of a theme word. If there is already an active hint on the board, a hint will show that word's letter order.
A hint for today's Strands game: Let me fix my hair.
What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?Warning: Spoilers ahead!
In today's puzzle, there are eight theme words to find (including the spangram). Here are the first two letters for each word:
- CO
- BE
- BR
- GR
- PR
- ST
- PR
- IN (SPANGRAM)
Today's Spangram is mostly horizontal.
NYT Strands Spangram Answer for April 11Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Sunday, April 12, 2026, is INTHEMIRROR.
What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Sunday, April 12?- COMB
- BEAUTIFY
- BRUSH
- GROOM
- PREEN
- STYLE
- PRIMP
- SPANGRAM: INTHEMIRROR
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NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Sunday, April 12, 2026
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 #1036 onSunday, April 12, 2026.
Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Sunday, April 12, 2026 / New York TimesIf you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Sunday's puzzle, you're not alone, and these hints should definitely help you out. Plus, I'll reveal the answers further down.
Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle
Hints About Today's NYT Connections Categories on Sunday, April 12- You put them on one leg at a time.
- It's all a matter of...
- To put out.
- Like Barbie or Cabbage Patch.
Related: 300 Trivia Questions and Answers to Jumpstart Your Fun Game Night
Ready for the answers? Scroll below this image (the image that represents your very appreciated patience!).
iStock
Today's Connections Game Answers for Sunday, April 12:1. PANTS FEATURES: BELT LOOP, CUFF, FLY, POCKET
2. PERSPECTIVE: ANGLE, POSITION, STANCE, TAKE
3. EMIT: CAST, PROJECT, RADIATE, SHED
4. ____ DOLL: PAPER, RAG, RUSSIAN, TROLL
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
Today’s Wordle Hint, Answers for #1758 on Sunday, April 12, 2026
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 #1758 ahead.
Let's start with a few hints.
There are two vowels and one sometimes vowel in today's five-letter word.
What kind of letter does today's Wordle start with?Today's Wordle begins with a vowel.
Are there any double letters?There are double letters in today's Wordle.
Can you give another hint about today's Wordle?A hint for today’s Wordle is: a narrow street or passageway between or behind buildings.
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 #1758 on Sunday, April 12, 2026.Today's Wordle answer on Sunday, April 12, 2026, is ALLEY.
-If you missed it, catch up with the answer to yesterday’s Wordle.
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He Starred in Two of TV’s Biggest Sitcoms—Now He’s 80
If you’ve turned on the TV over the last few decades, there’s a good chance Ed O'Neillhas been part of your routine.
The beloved actor turns 80 on April 12, 2026, and his career is one of those rare runs that spans generations, anchored by characters that feel instantly familiar, whether you met them in the late ’80s or much later.
For many viewers, O’Neill will always be synonymous with Married… with Children. As Al Bundy, the grumpy, sarcastic shoe salesman with a surprisingly sentimental streak, he helped define one of television’s most iconic sitcoms. Airing from 1987 to 1997, the show pushed boundaries at the time, offering a sharper, more irreverent take on family life that stood in stark contrast to the wholesome sitcoms that came before it.
Al Bundy wasn’t perfect (far from it!) but that was the point. O’Neill brought just enough humanity to the role to make audiences laugh and, occasionally, even sympathize. It’s a performance that still resonates, especially for those who remember tuning in week after week.
Years later, O’Neill found a whole new audience with Modern Family. As Jay Pritchett, the no-nonsense patriarch navigating a blended, modern household, he delivered a performance that felt both grounded and quietly heartfelt. The show became a massive hit, running for 11 seasons and introducing O’Neill to a younger generation, while longtime fans appreciated seeing a familiar face in a very different kind of role.
What makes that transition so special is how seamlessly he evolved. Where Al Bundy was loud and cynical, Jay Pritchett was more reflective; a man softening with age, learning to embrace change, and often serving as the emotional anchor of the series.
Beyond television, O’Neill has also popped up in memorable film roles, including the comedy Wayne's World, where he played a scene-stealing supporting role, and lent his voice to family favorites like Disney's Finding Dory. These projects only added to a career built on versatility and longevity.
Still, it’s his television work that continues to define his legacy. He's had two hugely successful sitcoms, decades apart, each capturing a different moment in American family life.
At 80, O’Neill represents something increasingly rare in Hollywood: a steady, enduring presence who didn’t just chase trends, but became part of the cultural fabric himself. And whether you remember him as Al, Jay, or somewhere in between, his characters have a way of sticking with you long after the credits roll.
RELATED: He Played on Iconic Songs You’ve Heard for Decades—Now He’s 81
6 Dreamy Cocktail Recipes for 'Euphoria' Premiere Night
If you’ve been counting down the days, the wait is almost over—Euphoria is officially returning.
Season 3 is set to premiereSunday, April 12, airing on HBO and streaming on Max. Fans can tune in Sunday night when the show premieres at 9 p.m. ET. Expect another visually stunning, emotionally intense chapter of the series that’s become known for pushing boundaries, both in storytelling and style.
Whether you’re planning a watch party or just want to elevate your solo viewing experience, there’s a fun way to lean into the show’s signature aesthetic: themed cocktails inspired by Euphoria's bold, dreamlike visuals.
Enter Empress 1908 Indigo Gin, a deep indigo spirit that transforms into shades of lavender, pink and fuchsia depending on what you mix it with. In other words, it’s basically made for a Euphoria-style night. Here are a few Euphoria-themed cocktails to try!
'Euphoria'-Themed Empress 1908 Indigo Gin CocktailsEmpress Lavender Bee’s KneesA floral twist on a classic, this one feels equal parts elegant and on-theme.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
- 3/4 oz cardamom lavender syrup
- 3/4 oz lemon juice
- Lavender sprig (for garnish)
Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and garnish with a lavender sprig.
Empress Lavender HazeLight, refreshing, and visually stunning, this one leans into that signature color shift.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
- 1 oz honey syrup
- 2 oz lemonade
- Lavender sprig (for garnish)
Shake the lemonade and syrup with ice, strain over crushed ice, then float the gin on top for that layered look.
Empress Bergamot Sparkling CocktailIf you want something a little more elevated (and bubbly), this one delivers.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
- 3/4 oz bergamot liqueur
- 3/4 oz maraschino liqueur
- 1/4 oz blueberry lavender syrup
- Sparkling water or prosecco
Stir ingredients with ice, strain into a glass, and top with sparkling water or prosecco.
Empress Wild VioletShe's floral, she's delicate, and she's almost too pretty to drink.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
- 3/4 oz crème de violette
- 3/4 oz violet syrup
- Club soda
- Edible flowers (for garnish)
Shake ingredients with ice, strain into a coupe glass, and top with club soda.
Empress Grapefruit Gin DaiquiriThis one's a citrus-forward option with a subtle floral twist.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
- 1/2 oz coconut water
- 1 oz grapefruit juice
- 1 tsp lavender syrup
Shake everything except the gin, pour over ice, then float the gin on top.
Empress Lychee Rose SpritzLight, fragrant, and perfect if you want something a little different.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
- 1/2 oz lemon juice
- 1 tbsp rose jam
- 2 oz soda water
- Lychee
Muddle lychee, add lemon juice and ice, then pour over a glass with rose jam and soda. Float gin on top.
Whether you’re watching for the drama, the visuals or the performances, Euphoria has always been about creating a full sensory experience, and these cocktails fit right in.
1986 Power Ballad Named Named No. 1 Hit Song Became a Timeless Anthem
A number one power ballad single captured the hearts of listeners worldwide and has since evolved into a timeless anthem over the past 40 years.
Back in 1986, Whitney Houston released one of her iconic songs, “Greatest Love of All,” that quickly became more than just a chart success.
Written by lyricist Linda Creed and renowned composer Michael Masser, it was initially created for The Greatest, a 1977 biopic of Muhammad Ali.
Before the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, it was first recorded by George Benson, intended for the movie; however, it was a fated performance when the then-19-year-old Houston sang the track at a New York nightclub, which was witnessed by Masser and legendary record producer Clive Davis.
Both were moved by the female singer’s rendition and later offered her a recording contract with the label Arista Records.
Despite the initial plans for her debut album, Houston wanted to include “Greatest Love of All” due to the song's message of self-reliance.
Whitney Houston in Brussels, Belgium on 5th June 1988.Goedefroit Music/Getty Images
On February 14, 1985, she released her self-titled debut studio album, which featured some of her signature hits and chart-topping tracks, including "Saving All My Love for You", "How Will I Know" and of course "Greatest Love of All".
Beyond the public’s love for the song, it also reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and dominated the chart for three consecutive weeks.
Moreover, "Greatest Love of All" also reached the top spot on the Billboard Adult Contemporary and R&B charts, further solidifying its presence in the music scene.
In addition to her chart-topping success, Houston also received major wins following the release of her hit track.
Whitney Houston's recording of "Greatest Love of All" earned several prestigious awards and nominations following its massive success in 1986.
View this post on InstagramThe singer-actress took home Favorite Soul/R&B Video Single and Favorite Album at the 4th Annual American Music Awards.
The popularity of the song and her other tracks also led her to win Top Pop Artist, Top Pop Album and Top Pop Album Artist at the 1986 Billboard Music Awards.
Celebrating the milestone, the official Instagram account of the late music icon marked 40 years since its release.
“40 years ago today, "Greatest Love of All" was released as a single from Whitney's debut album 'Whitney Houston'. Originally recorded by George Benson in 1977 for the film "The Greatest", the song was further popularized by Whitney, becoming a major hit — topping the charts in the U.S., Australia and Canada and reaching the Top 20 in most other countries. It reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for 3 weeks in 1986 and remains her third biggest U.S. hit, after "I Will Always Love You" and "I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)". The song won the American Music Award for Favorite Soul/R&B Video Single, and received a GRAMMY nomination for a Record Of The Year and a Soul Train Music Award nomination for Single of The Year,” the caption reads.
Related: 1979 Hit Ranked Among ‘Best Rock Songs’ of All Time Became a Timeless Anthem
Target's $100 Foldable Sofa Chair Is 'Stylish,' 'Comfy,' and 'Perfect' for Compact Spaces
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When you live in a compact space and are on a budget, you've got to shop smarter and think about which furniture is actually worth your time and money. Luckily, as avid shoppers, we're always looking for new home deals that will improve your home and avoid draining your bank account. Target is one of our favorite retailers for furniture sales right now, and the retailer is currently selling the Costway Folding Lazy Sofa Chair for 56% off.
The online exclusive piece initially cost $225, but has been reduced to $100. It's trending on Target's website too, so you'll want to shop for it sooner rather than later. The seat is 5.5 inches tall, 27.5 inches wide, and 68.5 inches long, so make sure you take that into account when buying it for your space. It weighs 22 pounds and supports up to 330 pounds, and comes complete withone armchair, one pillow, and a user's manual.
Costway Folding Lazy Sofa Chair, $100 (was $225) at Target Shop at TargetThe chair features a steel frame and faux linen fabric for breathability, so it's recommended to get it professionally cleaned to ensure it holds its quality. The best part about this chair is that it offers six adjustable backrest positions, ranging from 100 to 180 degrees. Plus, the seat cushion is ergonomically padded to support your shoulders, back, arms, hips, and legs. The cushion cover can be easily removed for cleaning.
The chair can be transformed from an armchair to a lounger to a flat nap bed, making it "perfect" for small apartments, bedrooms, living rooms, and extra guests. You can also detach the seat cushion and pillow and then fold the chair to make it fully flat, so that you're able to place it underneath a bed. Not to mention, its smart design allows you to take it out to relax whenever you'd like. "I use it a few hours at night when I watch television," one reviewer wrote.
Related: Target’s 'Sturdy' 10-Drawer Dresser Is Now 50% Off and Has 'Plenty of Storage Space'
Other customers described the sofa chair as "very comfy," "stylish," "very durable," "sturdy," and "relaxing." Another user said that it serves as the ideal meditation chair, because it's flat and provides a cushion, preventing you from having to sit on the floor. According to a few parent reviews, the chair is also particularly comfortable for children.
Shop More Deals- Gingham Check 3-Piece Duvet Cover Set, $38 (was $63) at Target
- Costway Lift Top Coffee Table, $98 (was $245) at Target
- Famapy Nightstand, $90 (was $140) at Target
This space-saving armchair serves so many purposes. Add it to your daily routine while it's just over 50% off at Target!
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.
Profound 1993 Hit Film Ranked Among the Best Movies of All Time
Steven Spielberg is one of the most influential filmmakers in history, so it's no surprise that one of his most profound films is ranked among the best movies of all time.
His critically-acclaimed film Schindler's List is included on the official Letterboxd list of Top 500 Movies of All Time, where it's ranked at #12. The Letterboxd Top 500 list, which was last updated on April 6, 2026, ranks feature films based on average member ratings.
Released in 1993, Schindler's List tells the real-life story of German businessman Oskar Schindler and how he saved thousands of Jewish lives from the Nazis during World War II.
Starring Liam Neeson as Schindler, the film's notable cast also includes Ralph Fiennes, who portrayed SS officer Amon Goeth, as well as acclaimed British actor Ben Kingsley, plus Embeth Davidtz, Caroline Goodall, Jonathan Sagall and more.
View this post on InstagramThe film was not only a major box office success, grossing over $322 million worldwide (per Box Office Mojo), but it was also critically celebrated as well, winning the award for Best Picture at the Academy Awards in 1994.
Schindler's List won a whopping seven Oscars in total that year, including Best Directing for Spielberg, plus, Best Cinematography, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Film Editing, Best Art Direction and Best Original Score.
Neeson and Fiennes were nominated for Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor, respectively, though neither of them ended up taking home the Oscar. (Tom Hanks was crowned Best Actor that year for Philadelphia, while Tommy Lee Jones won for his supporting role in The Fugitive.)
Schindler's List is frequently featured curated lists ranking the top movies, including Rolling Stone's 100 Greatest Movies of All Time (ranked at #39). It's also #7 on IMDb's list of the Top 250 Movies.
Related: This 'Below Average' Film Is Still Ranked as a Fan-Favorite Movie
Best-Selling Solo Artist in U.S. History Released Debut Album 37 Years Ago Today
Garth Brooks' self-titled debut album was released 37 years ago today!
On April 12, 1989, the country star released Garth Brooks—a neotraditional country album with elements of honky-tonk and Western swing mixed with rock-and-roll and pop. He would later expand on these sounds in his second album No Fences the following year.
"This album was released in April 1989, in the States. Definitely scared to death," Brooks said of his first record. "I thought the album was very very innocent. And I gotta be truthful with you, every time I hear those songs off the radio or off the album itself, or even when we play them live. I really get that same kind of scared feeling, that I had, way back in 1988, and 1989."
"That first album is always a big one for any artist and I, without trying to sound egotistical, I'm very proud of my first one," he added.
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At the time of Garth Brooks' release, Brooks was already topping the charts with the album's first single, "Much Too Young (to Feel This Damn Old)."
The song became the album's first Billboard Top 10 hit, and the record gave way for three more Top 10 singles, including Brooks's first No. 1 song "If Tomorrow Never Comes."
The fourth and final single from Garth Brooks was "The Dance," which stayed at the top of the charts for three weeks and is one of the biggest hits of Brooks' career to this day.
The emotional ballad's music video features appearances by several people who had died while living their dream, including Martin Luther King Jr., Keith Whitley, and the Challenger space shuttle crew.
Garth Brooks was Brooks' first diamond-certified record, selling over 10 million copies in the U.S. The album peaked at No. 13 on the Billboard 200 and at No. 2 on the Top Country Albums chart.
37 years later, Brooks is the best-selling solo artist in U.S. history—with over 200 million albums sold.
1952 No. 1 Hit Called One of the ‘Greatest Diss Tracks’ of All Time Was Just Reimagined by Ella Langley
Ella Langley released her brand new album, Dandelion, on Friday, April 10 via SAWGOD/Columbia Records. The country music superstar, 26, co-wrote 14 of the 18 tracks on the project.
One song that she didn’t have a hand in writing that appears on the record is her stunning cover of the 1952 Kitty Wells honky tonk classic, “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels.”
A Response SongWritten by J.D. “Jay” Miller, the country classic, served as a comeback response to Hank Thompson’s 1952 chart-topping release of “The Wild Side of Life,” according toHoller.Country. That song blamed women for undermining the chances of a successful marriage, labeling them as ‘honky tonk angels,’ while the Miller response finds Wells pointing the finger at unfaithful men, calling them responsible for luring women off-course.
“It wasn't God who made honky-tonk angels / As you said in the words of your song / Too many times married men think they're still single / That has caused many a good girl to go wrong,” the chorus goes.
History Was MadeThe original recording of “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” became a career-defining hit for Wells, making her the first female solo artist to go No. 1 on the Billboard Country charts. Her ‘50s smash spent a total of six weeks atop the chart.
Her original release has been widely considered the first major country “diss track” by a female, and decades later still rings true as one of the most “Savage Country Music Diss Tracks,” according to Taste of Country.
Additionally, the song was preserved by the National Recording Registry in 2007 and ranked among Rolling Stone’s 2024 list of ‘200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time.’
“It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” is the only cover on Langley’s Dandelion album, aside from a traditional-style intro and outro called “Froggy Went A Courtin,” which proves the tune still resonates with listeners more than 70 years after its release.
How Royal Stylists Made Queen Elizabeth's Clothes, Despite Royal Rule She Couldn't Be Measured
Royal stylists had their work cut out for them when it came to making clothes for Queen Elizabeth II.
Stewart Parvin was one of Elizabeth’s trusted stylists in her later life before she died in September 2022 at the age of 96. He specifically helped put together Her Majesty’s iconic neon green and purple ensemble that she wore to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s 2018 wedding.
While Parvin took part in creating some iconic looks, it was even more of a triumph because of one particularly tricky royal protocol.
WINDSOR, UNITED KINGDOM - MAY 19: (EMBARGOED FOR PUBLICATION IN UK NEWSPAPERS UNTIL 24 HOURS AFTER CREATE DATE AND TIME) Queen Elizabeth II attends the wedding of Prince Harry to Ms Meghan Markle at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle on May 19, 2018 in Windsor, England. Prince Henry Charles Albert David of Wales marries Ms. Meghan Markle in a service at St George's Chapel inside the grounds of Windsor Castle. Among the guests were 2200 members of the public, the royal family and Ms. Markle's Mother Doria Ragland. (Photo by Pool/Max Mumby/Getty Images)Pool/Max Mumby/Getty Images
“I told them that I needed to have measurements, but you can’t measure the Queen. They sent me some garments that I then based my calicoes upon,” Parvin told The Telegraph about his process, which consisted of relying on the Queen’s existing items of clothing to figure out sizing instead of taking updated measurements.
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In addition to Elizabeth’s busy schedule, which made it difficult to schedule appointments like fittings, she was also very private and preferred to avoid unnecessary physical contact. Her team was able to figure out the specifications for her clothing, but to make it fit for a monarch, extra care and consideration had to be taken for every item.
“We would look at the garments in daylight and in electric light. It’s really important how they photograph in different lights,” Parvin explained about the process of creating an outfit that looks just right.
In addition to Elizabeth getting photographed from every angle, there was also a practicality element that was needed for her outfits.
“You also have to make clothes in which the Queen could get out of a carriage or get out of a car without any mishaps,” Parvin continued. “When the Queen arrives, she’s instantly on show. The clothes have to flow in a way that they look perfect all the time.”
Elizabeth became known for her bright and colorful ensembles, which was an important wardrobe strategy. Elizabeth’s daughter-in-law, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, explained in the 2016 documentary The Queen at 90 that the monarch dressed so she could always be spotted.
"She needs to stand out for people to be able to say, 'I saw the Queen,'" Sophie said, per Mental Floss. "Don't forget that when she turns up somewhere, crowds are two-, three-, four-, 10-, 15-deep, and someone wants to be able to say they saw a bit of the queen's hat as she went past."
RELATED: Kate Middleton Nods to Her Royal Title in Stylish Look at Historic Ceremony
Kate Middleton’s former stylist Natasha Archer also opened up about all the things a royal stylist must consider when putting together an outfit for a member of the royal family.
“It’s everything — what floor are you going to be walking on? How hot is it going to be? Is it going to be windy? Are you going to be sitting in a prominent position? Are you going to be up and down, saying hello to guests?” she told The Telegraph.
Archer “learned so much” during her time working for the Princess of Wales, adding it’s an all-encompassing job.
“It’s planning, it’s being ready, it’s offering an unwavering level of support to who you are working with,” Archer said. “And my work has definitely evolved now, but my standards remain the same.”
Stephen King Voted For These 10 Films as the Best Movies of the 21st Century
With over 50 feature films adapted from his stories, it's safe to say Stephen King knows what makes a good movie.
The legendary author and "King of Horror" was one of many celebrities who cast their votes for the New York Time's ranking of the 100 Best Movies of the 21st Century, selecting 10 movies he believes deserved a spot on the list.
King's ballot contained a wide range of selections, featuring some critically-acclaimed films and, of course, a few horror movies—though he notably didn't include any films based on his own works. But six out of the 10 movies King selected ended up making the master list, speaking to his impeccable taste.
Check out which movies earned King's vote for the best films of the century:
Black Hawk Down (2001)Black Hawk Down (2001)
dir. Ridley Scott pic.twitter.com/j6yHSeZh2Y
Black Hawk Down, a 2001 war film based on the true story of the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu, when two Black Hawk helicopters were shot down. Directed by Ridley Scott, the film starred Josh Hartnett, Ewan McGregor and Tom Sizemore.
Rotten Tomatoes score:77%
Average Letterboxd rating: 3.7/5 stars
Brokeback Mountain (2005) View this post on InstagramDirected by Ang Lee, Brokeback Mountain is a 2005 romance film that portrays a pivotal LGBTQ+ narrative between two cowboys, played by Jake Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger. It received eight Academy Award nominations, it won three (Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Original Score).
Brokeback Mountain was also named on the Times' final list of winners, ranked at #17 on the 100 Best list.
Rotten Tomatoes score:88%
Letterboxd average rating: 4.2/5 stars
Children of Men (2006)Children of Men (2006) pic.twitter.com/wk5a9x2c6D
— Cinema Joy (@CinemaJoys) February 12, 2026Children of Men, a 2006 dystopian sci-fi thriller directed by Alfonso Cuarón, is set in a post-apocalyptic world in 2027. It stars Julianne Moore, Clive Owen and Chiwetel Ejiofor, and was nominated for three Oscars.
Children of Men also ranked on the full 100 Best list, coming it at #13.
Rotten Tomatoes score:92%
Letterboxd average rating: 4.3/5 stars
Million Dollar Baby (2004) View this post on InstagramReleased in 2004, Million Dollar Baby is a sports drama film directed by and starring ClintEastwood, as well as Hilary Swank and Morgan Freeman. It won Picture of the Year at the Oscars in 2005, and also took home the Lead Actress and Supporting Actor categories. Eastwood also won the Academy Award Oscar for Best Directing.
Rotten Tomatoes score:90%
Letterboxd average rating: 4.0/5 stars
No Country For Old Men (2007)No Country for Old Men (2007)
dir. The Coen Brothers pic.twitter.com/AeZjFEYeiw
No Country For Old Men was ranked at #6 on the full 100 Best list, and it was also named as one of King's favorites. Starring Javier Bordem, Josh Brolin and Tommy Lee Jones, the 2007 film was directed by Ethan and Joel Cohen, and won four Oscars at the 2008 Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
Rotten Tomatoes score:93%
Letterboxd average rating: 4.3/5 stars
O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000) View this post on InstagramAnother selection from the Cohen Brothers, King selected O Brother, Where Art Thou? on his ballot. The 2000 comedy-drama film stars George Clooney, John Turturro and Tim Blake Nelson.
O Brother, Where Art Thou? also ranked on the full 100 Best list, coming it at #76.
Rotten Tomatoes score:78%
Letterboxd average rating: 4.0/5 stars
Oppenheimer (2023)OPPENHEIMER (2023) pic.twitter.com/jHq5e9p6bf
— Michael Warburton (@For_Film_Fans) April 9, 2026Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer, released in 2023, is a dramatization of the real life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, a physicist who played a pivotal role in the development of the atomic bomb. It won a whopping seven Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Directing.
Oppenheimer was also ranked at #65 on the full 100 Best list.
Rotten Tomatoes score:93%
Letterboxd average rating: 4.2/5 stars
The Departed (2006) View this post on Instagram#31 on the Times' full 100 Best list, The Departed is a 2006 crime thriller directed by Martin Scorsese, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon and Jack Nicholson. It won four Oscars, including Best Picture.
Rotten Tomatoes score:91%
Letterboxd average rating: 4.3/5 stars
The Rule of Jenny Pen (2024) View this post on InstagramTrue to his horror roots, King included The Rule of Jenny Pen on his ballot. Released in 2024 and directed by James Ashcroft, it stars John Lithgow, Geoffrey Rush, Nikki MacDonnell and Maaka Pohatu.
Rotten Tomatoes score:72%
Letterboxd average rating: 3.1/5 stars
Train to Busan (2016) View this post on InstagramA 2016 action-horror film, Train to Busan is a Korean film directed by Yeon Sang-ho and starring Gong Yoo, Jung Yu-mi and Ma Dong-seok.
Rotten Tomatoes score:95%
Letterboxd average rating: 4.0/5 stars
Related: This Classic Film's Canine Star Was Named the 'Best Movie Dog of All Time'
NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Sunday, April 12, 2026
If you're anything like me, the day is not complete until I finish all of the free word games from the New York Times. Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can't forget about the NYT's The Mini Crossword, too!
Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.
So, if you're working on today's Mini on for Today's Mini Crossword on Sunday, April 12, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!
Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Sunday, April 12, 2026Here are additional clues for each of the words in today's Mini Crossword.
NYT Mini Across Hints1 Across: First-aid case — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"
4 Across: Rooster giving directions on a farm, maybe —HINT: Starts with the letter "V"
5 Across: Showing little enthusiasm — HINT: Starts with the letter "T"
6 Across: Borough said to be the birthplace of hip-hop — HINT: Ends with the letter "X"
7 Across: Bird of prey — HINT: Starts with the letter "H"
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NYT Mini Down Hints1 Down: "Bam!" — HINT: Starts with the letter "K"
2 Down: Bold way to solve a print crossword — HINT: Ends with the letter "K"
3 Down: Spinoff of a popular lecture series — HINT: Starts with the letter "T"
4 Down: Aloe ___ — HINT: Starts with the letter "V"
5 Down: "Frankly ...," in a text — HINT: Ends with the letter "H"
Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Sunday, April 12, 2026Don't go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today's Mini Crossword.
NYT Mini Across Answers1 Across: First-aid case — KIT
4 Across: Rooster giving directions on a farm, maybe —VANE
5 Across: Showing little enthusiasm — TEPID
6 Across: Borough said to be the birthplace of hip-hop — BRONX
7 Across: Bird of prey — HAWK
1 Down: "Bam!" — KAPOW
2 Down: Bold way to solve a print crossword — ININK
3 Down: Spinoff of a popular lecture series — TEDX
4 Down: Aloe ___ — VERA
5 Down: "Frankly ...," in a text — TBH
1974 Classic Named No. 1 Hit Song Became an Unconditional Timeless Anthem
In 1974, Barbra Streisand released a song that would not only define an era, but went on to become one of the most iconic and evocative ballads in music history.
Her hit, "The Way We Were" climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, ultimately becoming the biggest song of the year. With its sweeping orchestration and deeply emotional lyrics, the track struck a chord with listeners, capturing the bittersweet nature of love, memory and longing.
Written for the film The Way We Were directed by Sydney Pollack, the song is closely tied to the story of two lovers whose relationship is shaped, and ultimately undone, by time and circumstance. Streisand starred in the film alongside Robert Redford, and their on-screen chemistry helped elevate the song into a defining cultural moment.
"I wanted Redford for Hubbell. But he turned it down," Streisand wrote in her memoir, My Name Is Barbra. Redford felt that “the script was so focused on Katie that Hubbell's character was underdeveloped. (He was right.) Bob asked Sydney, 'Who is this guy? He's just an object … He doesn't want anything. What does this guy want?' In Bob's opinion, he was 'shallow and one-dimensional. Not very real.' 'A pin-up girl in reverse,' as Sydney put it."
Streisand advocated for more scenes to be added to the script to deepen Hubbell's character, but Redford still wouldn't budge. Eventually, though, Pollack and Streisand wore him down, and the rest is the stuff of film history.
As for Streisand's track, it went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song, further cementing its place in entertainment history. Over the decades, it has remained a staple of classic pop and one of Streisand's signature performances.
More than 50 years later, the song's legacy continues to resonate, and it recently returned to the spotlight in a meaningful way. At the 2026 Academy Awards, Streisand performed a short a cappella rendition of "The Way We Were" as part of a tribute to Redford, honoring his decades-long impact on film following his death. The performance brought the song full circle, reminding audiences of its deep connection to both the film and the actor it helped immortalize.
With its timeless melody and emotional depth, "The Way We Were" remains more than just a hit song; it's an everlasting anthem about love, loss and the memories that stay with us long after moments have passed.
Related: 1972 Career-Defining Classic Named No. 1 Hit Song Became a Timeless Anthem
Prince Harry Left Diana's Royal Bodyguard “Aghast” After Giving Him the Slip
Prince Harry was known for being a cheeky kid, and one royal bodyguard recalled the young royal leaving him “aghast” after giving him the slip.
Royal expert Charles Ray shared the hilarious story about bodyguard Ken Wharfe, a former royal staffer responsible for looking after Harry and his older brother, Prince William, in the late 80s, before becoming Princess Diana's bodyguard between 1988 and 1993.
British Royals Diana, Princess of Wales (1961-1997), wearing a yellow suit with a Jasper Conran blouse, and her sons Prince Harry (in blue) and Prince William (in red) at the Guards Polo Club at Smiths Lawn, in Windsor Great Park, Windsor, Berkshire, England, 31st May 1987. Diana's Royal Protection Officer Ken Wharfe is visible in the background, to the right of the frame. (Photo by Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images)Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images
"I remember Ken Wharfe, the royal protection officer, [said] Harry would come up to him at various times and he'd say, 'Oh, can I be a policeman today?' And he'd actually give him a radio, and so they would talk to each other when they were at Kensington Palace,” Ray began on The Sun's “Royal Exclusive” podcast, per The Express.
He continued, "And actually one [day], Ken sort of decided, 'Actually, I'd better check in where he is.' And he was actually across the road. He was slightly older than five or seven, and he had actually gone out of the gates and across the road to a record shop. Ken was aghast at this and had to go and get him.”
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Wharfe has publicly recounted the story of Harry ditching the palace grounds and admitted he was worried about getting fired for losing track of the Duke of Sussex.
The security guard told GB News that he would think of tasks for Harry to do when boredom struck, like sending him to talk to the chauffeur in the garage, the chef, or the florist on the palace grounds. However, that was how Harry was able to sneak off by himself.
“In the end, he said, 'Can I go down and see Aunt Jane?'" Wharfe said about Harry wanting to visit Lady Jane Fellowes, Princess Diana's sister, who lived just outside Kensington Palace. Wharfe allowed him to go as long as he checked in on his way back.
Wharfe continued, "About 20 minutes later, I rang Jane and said, 'Have you sent Harry back yet?' She said, 'I sent him back ten minutes ago.’”
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Although Harry had spells of boredom just like any kid, his upbringing was anything but normal with his parents, Princess Diana and now-King Charles, in Kensington Palace. He reflected on some early memories during a virtual book event to promote his 2023 memoir Spare. Harry joined Dr. Gabor Maté to answer reader-submitted questions.
"As a royal child, did you get to roam the castles freely, and did you find any trap doors?" Maté asked on an attendee's behalf.
Harry laughed and replied, "That's the assumption that there were trap doors all over castles. As kids, it was an adventure, running around that kind of a place. What an experience."
"Not so many trap doors, lots of fun things to investigate, but I guess, it's weird. When you're brought up as a child in that environment, you think that is normal, but it's not. It's anything but normal," Harry explained. "So no, some secret doorways and some secret cupboards. None so sophisticated as you pull a book and then all of the sudden a thing opens. I probably would have gotten stuck in there.”
