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When you think of the Enlightenment in Europe—also known as the Age of Reason, which took place in the late 17th and 18th centuries—you might think of many things, such as intellectual ideas touching on religion, politics, reason for being and more. As Britannica reported, “the use and celebration of reason, the power by which humans understand the universe and improve their condition,” was at the center of the Age of Enlightenment. 

Key figures in this period included Voltaire, Immanuel Kant, Benjamin Franklin and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. In fact, Rousseau is considered “one of the most influential thinkers during the Enlightenment in 18th century Europe,” according to the Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy. He was a philosopher, writer and political theorist born in 1712 in Geneva, Switzerland, and he wrote many novels and treatises (written works that formally deal with a subject) that inspired French Revolution leaders and Romantic writers alike, per Britannica. Our quote of the day comes from one of his most famous treatises and focuses on the importance of kindness.

According to Britannica, Rousseau was less of an academic philosopher and wrote more about the way of life and existence in this world. He influenced music and artistic choices of the time, along with politics and reform, and changed how people expressed emotions such as love and friendship. Plus, he really wanted parents to be more interested in their children simply being kids and not being so stringent with them.

This is essentially what Rousseau was writing about in the passage where today’s quote comes from. He believed that placing burdens and too many responsibilities on kids took away from their youth. And above all, being kind was the most important “first duty” people had (as citizens of the world and as parents).

Related: Quote of the Day: Poet Edgar Allan Poe on the Power of Creativity, Imagination and Daydreaming

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Quote of the Day by Jean-Jacques Rousseau

“Men, be kind to your fellow-men; this is your first duty, kind to every age and station, kind to all that is not foreign to humanity. What wisdom can you find that is greater than kindness?”

This quote can be found in Rousseau’s Emile, or Education, his “classic work on the philosophy and practice of education,” according to the Online Library of Liberty. It was originally published in 1762. This quote appears in Book II of the treatise, which starts off with Rousseau writing about the second phase of life, which is infancy. He then goes into how children start to cry less as they learn to speak more, but there are still things that make them cry, of course.

He writes that no one knows when they will die, and many (at the time) don’t even reach old age. Rousseau states that “cruel education… sacrifices the present to an uncertain future,” and burdens children with limitations that ultimately make them “miserable.” 

Rousseau then writes our quote of the day. He follows it up with the sentiment that there is so much fun in childhood, something that adults remember fondly but can never return to. And because of this, fathers shouldn’t put more burdens on their kids because you never know how long each person has or what they will face throughout their lives.

“Do not lay up sorrow for yourselves by robbing them of the short span which nature has allotted to them,” he wrote. “As soon as they are aware of the joy of life, let them rejoice in it, so that whenever God calls them they may not die without having tasted the joy of life.”

Related: Quote of the Day: Psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross on Inner Light and Resilience Being 'Like Stained-Glass Windows’

Deeper Meaning of Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s Quote—No Greater Wisdom Than Kindness

Rousseau is sharing a pretty “out there” belief for the time period in this passage, telling parents (or fathers specifically) to ease up on the “shackles” of education and expectation and let kids be kids. 

But on top of all that is our quote for the day, which is a statement he throws in there to remind parents how important kindness is. While generosity or compassion aren’t the main point of Book II (or even this section of the book), it’s all a part of his message to be nicer to children and let them lean into their childhood more. 

So, whether you’re reading it in the context of the book it appears in or at face value, the quote means the same. Rousseau is saying that being thoughtful is your first job, no ifs, ands or buts. And that this “first duty” is not just to be nice to some people or just your kids. He states that you should be considerate with “every age and station,” which was another radical thought for the time. Not only was this a point in history where kids were meant to be seen and not heard, but it was also not really one where they were respected or treated with kindness just because. And it certainly was not a time when being nice to those lower than you on the social food chain was done, let alone expected.

He states that you should basically be considerate to all of humanity and that it’s the greatest wisdom out there.

It can be easy to move through life quickly and fall into the hustle and bustle of work or family life. But you should always find time to be kind to others, no matter who they are. Lead with kindness first, and you’ll go far.

Related: Quote of the Day: Writer George Orwell on Happiness—‘Men Can Only Be Happy’ When They Aren’t Searching for Happiness as Life’s Main Point

More Quotes from Jean-Jacques Rousseau

• “People who know little are usually great talkers, while men who know much say little.”
• “Man is born free, and everywhere he is in chains.”
• “The thirst after happiness is never extinguished in the heart of man.”
• “Teach by doing whenever you can, and only fall back upon words when doing it is out of the question.”
• “It is as if my heart and my brain did not belong to the same person. Feelings come quicker than lightning and fill my soul, but they bring me no illumination; they burn me and dazzle me.”
• “Gratitude is indeed a duty which we are bound to pay, but which benefactors cannot exact.”

Up Next:

Related: Quote of the Day: Novelist Flannery O’Connor on How Truth 'Does Not Change According to Our Ability to Stomach It Emotionally’

Brenda Harvey Richie, the ex-wife of Lionel Richie, shared the first update on the singer's recent health scare.

The Grammy Award winner, 77, was forced to cut his St. Paul, Minnesota, concert short earlier this week and was rushed to the hospital.

"Under advisement by doctors to rest and return to full health, Lionel Richie has postponed his show on Friday, June 26 in Chicago, IL and Saturday, June 27 in Columbus, OH," a statement shared by Richie's team read. "He and Earth, Wind & Fire will return to the stage on Tuesday, June 30 in Pittsburgh, PA. Lionel is heartbroken to postpone these two shows and cannot wait to be back performing for his fans."

The statement continued, "We apologize for any inconvenience this causes fans who have tickets for these two shows. Rescheduled dates will be announced soon."

While the statement was vague regarding Richie's health battle, TMZ reported that the artist felt "dizzy" and "strange" while performing.

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Praying for Lionel Richie🙏🏾 #lionelrichie #fyp

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On Friday, June 26, Richie's ex-wife and the mother of his eldest daughter Nicole Richie, shared an encouraging update with fans.

"Thanking everyone for their concern! Lionel is OK and will be back on the stage. ❤️❤️" she wrote via X.

The couple was married from 1975 to 1993, but have remained close in the decades since their divorce.

The so-called America 250 celebration is currently underway, with our country marking the epic milestone in a variety of ways.

A docuseries just dropped on Netflix called The American Experiment, for example, which tells the story of how the 13 colonies united against the British, overthrew the Redcoats and emerged on the other side with both independence and their own system of government.

And back in the early 2000s, a filmmaker from an entirely different nation decided to helm a series of movies about American life in the early 20th century.

Award-winning director Lars Von Trier debuted Dogville, his experimental arthouse drama starring Nicole Kidman and plenty of other big games, at the 2003 Cannes Film Festival. It was the first of three planned films for a "USA: Land of Opportunities" trilogy and released in the U.S. the following year.

The second installment, Manderlay, was released in 2005 and starred in Bryce Dallas Howard in place of Kidman, 59, due to scheduling conflicts. But it's worthy of note that a projected third film still has not come to fruition, despite the fact Von Trier, 70, has still kept busy making movies ever since.

Those who know the indie cinema scene, particularly Von Trier's filmography, know that Dogville takes the cake over Manderlay in terms of memorability for multiple reasons — particularly that the controversial auteur had written the Dogville script during a 12-day drug binge, according to a 2014 interview.

“I don’t know if I can make any more films, and that worries me,” he said during the same interview, per The Guardian, where he also revealed he was receiving treatment for dependency. “There is no creative expression of artistic value that has ever been produced by ex-drunkards and ex-drug-addicts. Who the hell would bother with a Rolling Stones without booze or with a Jimi Hendrix without heroin?”

Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle requires you to know a little bit about soccer. 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, June 28, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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

The New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

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 June 28, 2026

Here are some hints about the four categories to help you figure out the word groupings.

• Yellow: Very cool!
• Green: Hoops data.
• Blue: Allez les Bleus!
• Purple: Where the dunking happens.

Here Are Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories

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

• Yellow: STYLE
• Green: BASKETBALL STATS, ABBREVIATED
• Blue: MEMBERS OF FRANCE'S WORLD CUP SQUAD
• Purple: NBA ARENAS
  

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 #643 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• STYLE: FLAIR, PANACHE, PIZZAZZ, SWAGGER
• BASKETBALL STATS, ABBREVIATED: FG, FT, PF, TO
• MEMBERS OF FRANCE'S WORLD CUP SQUAD: BARCOLA, GUSTO, MBAPPÉ, OLISE
• NBA ARENAS: BARCLAYS, KIA, MODA, TD

Don't worry if you didn't get them this time—we've all been there.

Up next, catch up on the answers to recent Wordle puzzles.

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

On June 28, 2003, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl premiered at Disneyland, becoming the first film to ever do so. The reasoning made sense: it was based on the popular Disney ride, so why not debut it at the park where the film's idea originated? While those involved in the movie's creation faced doubts and ridicule, they got the last laugh when it grossed more than $650 million worldwide and launched a film franchise worth over $4 billion, despite never reaching No. 1 at the U.S. box office. It debuted at No. 2, despite its impressive run.

The Odds Against Success

Most didn't have high expectations for Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl. 2002's The Country Bears, based on a Disney World stage show, was a box-office flop. Not to mention how poorly recent pirate films had performed. 1995's Cutthroat Island, starring Geena Davis and Matthew Modine, was not just a critical and commercial failure but also forced the film studio Carolco Pictures to file for bankruptcy.

The film starred Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley, Geoffrey Rush, and Johnny Depp. Knightley, who was only 17 when filming began, recalled later that her years making Pirates of the Caribbean were "a brutal time to be a young woman in the public eye," and that she experienced stalking.

The Battle Over Jack Sparrow

While it's hard to imagine anyone other than Depp playing the lead role of Jack Sparrow, the actor was considered a controversial choice at the time. What the studio wanted was a movie star, which they didn't think Depp was. Actors such as Matthew McConaughey, Jim Carrey, and Michael Keaton were considered for the role before Depp signed on.

Disney's head honchos, especially, hated his interpretation of the character. "They just couldn't stand him," Depp claimed to Vanity Fair. "I think it was Michael Eisner, the head of Disney at the time, who was quoted as saying, 'He's ruining the movie.'"

Disney's gamble -- and Depp's -- ultimately paid off. Depp won a Screen Actors' Guild Award, MTV Movie Award, and an Empire Award, and was nominated for an Oscar for his portrayal of Jack Sparrow.

The films later expanded the world with Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales.

The 2006 sequel went on to become the highest-grossing film of its release year and the third film in history to cross the $1 billion mark globally.

Against a backdrop of studio doubt, failed pirate movies, and intense personal pressures on its young cast, Pirates of the Caribbean proved to be a historic gamble. By trusting its unique creative vision and Depp's eccentric lead performance, Disney transformed a risky theme-park adaptation into a multi-billion-dollar cinematic phenomenon.

In June of 1970, Linda Ronstadt released “Long Long Time” — a track that ultimately became her breakthrough song as a solo artist after stepping away from her band, the Stone Poneys, two years prior.  

Appearing as the first single from her sophomore Silk Purse album, and produced by Elliot Mazer and recorded in Nashville, “Long Long Time” followed Ronstadt’s first solo effort, Hand Sown…Home Grown, which wasn’t a commercial success.

Written by Gary White, “Long Long Time” showcases Ronstadt’s stunning soft, whispering vocals over a heavy stringed arrangement peppered with gentle acoustics. The song finds the folk-rock icon grieving over a relationship that is clearly over. 

Throughout the ballad, her vocal delivery plays out like a confessional as she captures the emotional exhaustion of trying to win someone’s love and affection, but failing to do so. Though her tracked vocals on the song seem flawless, Ronstadt, surprisingly, wasn’t a fan of the take, according to American Songwriter, who sourced a 1985 interview the singer had with Esquire. 

“I can remember the day I recorded ‘Long, Long Time.’ It was 10:30 in the morning, but I was really into this kind of achy feeling, because the music – it’s in these chords. I think my phrasing was horrible,” Ronstadt said. “I think I kind of butchered it, but it is definitely in those chords. And it happened to the musicians, who are jaded session players. As soon as the fiddle player and Weldon Myrick, who’s the steel guitar [player], began to play those chords, they got real into that and became personally involved.”

Although she wasn’t too keen on her own delivery, “Long Long Time” has gone on to become a timeless classic, resonating with newer generations, as it experienced a resurgence in 2023 after being featured in the HBO series The Last of Us.  

According to Ultimate Classic Rock, which sourced Spotify, the 2023 revival resulted in streams of the song going up a whopping 4,900 percent. That comeback drew comparisons to the resurgence of Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God),” which grew in popularity after being featured in Netflix’s television series Stranger Things. 

Though “Long Long Time” didn’t reach No. 1 on any chart, it did give Ronstadt a top 40 hit, peaking at No. 25 on the Billboard Hot 100, where it stayed for 12 weeks. Additionally, “Long Long Time” earned Ronstadt a Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Vocal Performance/Female in 1971. 

Related: 1981 No. 1 Hit Named Among ‘Greatest Country Songs of All Time’ Became a Genre Anthem of Small-Town Pride

Today's NYT Strands puzzle is extra festive. 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 #847 on Sunday, June 28.

How to Play Strands

The New York Times

According to the New York Times, here's exactly how to play Strands:

Find theme words to fill the board.

• Theme words stay highlighted in blue when found.
• Drag or tap letters to create words. If tapping, double-tap the last letter to submit.
• Theme words fill the board entirely. No theme words overlap.

Find the “spangram.”

• The spangram describes the puzzle's theme and touches two opposite sides of the board. It may be two words.
• The spangram highlights in yellow when found.
• An example spangram with corresponding theme words: PEAR, FRUIT, BANANA, APPLE, etc.

Need a hint?

• Find non-theme words to get hints.
• For every three non-theme words you find, you earn a hint.
• Hints show the letters of a theme word. If there is already an active hint on the board, a hint will show that word's letter order.

What Is Today's Strands Hint for the Theme: "March in June"

A hint for today's Strands game: Love is love.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

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

• RA
• PA
• CEL
• RA
• DR
• FL
• PR (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

Today's Spangram is a mix of vertical and horizontal.

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for June 28

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Sunday, June 28, 2026, isPRIDEMONTH.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Sunday, June 28?

• RAINBOW
• PARADE
• CELEBRATION
• RALLY
• DRAG
• FLAGS
• SPANGRAM: PRIDEMONTH

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

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

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

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

Shop More Deals

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

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

You should solve today's NYT Connections puzzle in record time if you're good on the strings. There's nothing quite as exhilarating as the feeling of completing the daily New York Times Wordle, Strands, Mini Crossword and Connections Sports Edition word games in one fell swoop. But sometimes that can be easier said than done. If you need help with today's Connections puzzle, keep reading.

Spoilers ahead! We've warned you. We mean it. Read no further until you really want some clues or you've completely given up and want the answers ASAP. Get ready for all of today's NYT 'Connections’ hints and answers for #1113 onSunday, June 28, 2026.

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

The New York Times

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

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

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

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

Related: 300 Trivia Questions and Answers to Jumpstart Your Fun Game Night

Ready for the answers? Scroll below this image (the image that represents your very appreciated patience!).

iStock

Today's Connections Game Answers for Sunday, June 28:

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

How'd you do?

Up Next:

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

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

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

Today's NYT Wordle answer might make you want to listen to Doug E. Fresh. But the day just isn't complete until I've solved all of the free word games from the New York Times, including Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Strands, and Mini Crossword. And, of course, I can’t forget about Wordle, too! If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1835 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

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

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

Today's Wordle begins with a vowel.

Are there any double letters?

There are double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle

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

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

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

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

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

The New York Times

Today's Wordle Answer for #1835 on Sunday, June 28, 2026.

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

-If you missed it, catch up with the answer to yesterday’s Wordle.

Related: Every 5 Letter Word Wordle Hasn't Used Yet (Updated Daily)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: Yungblud Cancels Festival Performance After Tonsillitis Flare-Up

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

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

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

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

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

The Capitol studio setting also mattered.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Second Major Honor for 'Blazing Saddles'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Aldara Zarraoa/Redferns

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The song's success came almost instantly.

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

Its infectious sound resonated around the world.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Courtesy of Target

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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